This easy oven-baked chicken breast is juicy and flavorful with just a few simple seasonings. Perfect for busy nights when you want a tasty meal without a lot of fuss!
I love how the chicken cooks itself while I prepare the rest of the dinner. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some healthy protein. Yum! Who needs takeout? 🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe as they cook quickly and are easy to slice. If you prefer, you can substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier result.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps the seasonings stick. Feel free to swap it with melted butter or avocado oil if you prefer a different flavor.
Garlic Powder: This ingredient provides a nice punch of flavor. If you don’t have garlic powder, you can use minced fresh garlic, just reduce the amount to about 1-2 cloves.
Paprika: It adds color and a mild smokiness. If you want a bit of heat, try smoked paprika instead, or even cayenne pepper – but go easy on cayenne to avoid overwhelming the dish!
How Do I Keep Chicken Breasts Juicy in the Oven?
One of the main concerns with baking chicken breast is that it can dry out. Here are some tips to ensure it’s juicy:
- Before cooking, pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the oil and seasonings adhere.
- Bake at a higher temperature of 400°F (200°C) to seal in moisture.
- Don’t overcook! Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—it should reach 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part. Remove it as soon as it hits this temperature.
- Let the chicken rest for at least 5 minutes after baking. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the meat tender.
Easy Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: fresh herbs (such as rosemary or thyme) for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe will take about 30 minutes from start to finish! You’ll need about 5-10 minutes to prep and season the chicken, and then it will bake for 20-25 minutes in the oven. Quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your chicken cooks evenly and stays juicy.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is important as it helps the olive oil and seasonings stick better to the chicken.
3. Add Olive Oil:
Drizzle olive oil over both sides of the chicken breasts. Using your hands, rub it in to make sure they are well-coated. This adds flavor and helps to keep the chicken moist while baking.
4. Mix the Seasonings:
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix them well so the flavors can blend together.
5. Season the Chicken:
Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts. Make sure to press gently to help it stick!
6. Place in the Oven:
Put the seasoned chicken breasts on a baking sheet or in a baking dish. Make sure there’s enough space between them to allow for even cooking.
7. Bake:
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. To ensure it’s cooked perfectly, check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a meat thermometer, cut into the thickest part and make sure the juices run clear.
8. Rest the Chicken:
Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it juicy and tender.
9. Serve:
If desired, garnish with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an added touch. Slice the chicken and serve it up with your favorite sides. Enjoy your meal!
FAQ: Easy Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
While you can use frozen chicken breasts, it’s best to thaw them first for even cooking. Thaw them in the fridge overnight or in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for a quicker option. Avoid cooking them from frozen as this can lead to uneven doneness.
How Do I Know When the Chicken is Cooked Through?
The most reliable way to check is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have one, you can cut into the thickest part; the juices should run clear and there should be no pink meat.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the chicken in your favorite spices or a blend of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs will enhance the flavor. Just be sure to pat the chicken dry before seasoning and cooking!
What Should I Serve with Baked Chicken?
This chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! Try serving it with roasted vegetables, rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. The creamy texture of the chicken also complements pasta dishes nicely!
