This Easy Oven Baked Chicken Breast is juicy, tender, and packed with flavor! It’s a simple dish made with just a few ingredients that you probably already have at home.
I love how quick it is to prepare—just season, pop it in the oven, and relax. Perfect for busy days or when I want something healthy without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect as they’re quick to cook. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work well for a juicier bite.
Olive Oil: It adds moisture and helps the spices stick. You can use melted butter or avocado oil if you’re out of olive oil.
Garlic Powder: This ingredient gives a nice depth of flavor, but fresh minced garlic can replace it if you have it on hand. Just use about 1-2 cloves instead.
Paprika: For a smoky touch, try smoked paprika. If you like it spicy, a pinch of cayenne pepper can do the trick.
Italian Seasoning: This mix is great, but you can substitute with just oregano or basil. Dry herbs work best, but if you have fresh on hand, use more!
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Breasts are Juicy and Flavorful?
To get tender, juicy chicken, start by patting the chicken dry; this helps with browning. The key is to use enough seasoning and let the chicken rest after baking—this redistributes the juices. Here’s how:
- Preheat your oven adequately. A hot oven ensures the chicken cooks properly.
- Don’t rush the baking! Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for at least 5 minutes. This step keeps it juicy when you cut into it.
With these tips, you’ll nail the perfect oven-baked chicken breast every time!
Easy Oven Baked Chicken Breast Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or dried oregano/basil)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe requires about 10 minutes of prep time and 20-25 minutes of cooking time, plus 5 minutes of resting time after baking. In total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes from start to table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first—set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating ensures your chicken cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden color.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This step helps promote browning and crispness on the outside.
3. Mix the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Give it a good mix to combine all the flavors.
4. Coat the Chicken:
Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken breasts and rub it in with your hands, ensuring even coverage. This will keep the chicken moist while it cooks.
5. Season the Chicken:
Sprinkle the seasoning mixture generously over both sides of the chicken breasts. Press gently to make sure it sticks well to the chicken.
6. Place in the Baking Dish:
Put the seasoned chicken breasts into a baking dish or onto a rimmed baking sheet. Make sure they are spaced out to allow even cooking.
7. Bake the Chicken:
Slide the baking dish into the oven and let the chicken bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it—when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear, it’s done!
8. Rest and Serve:
Once out of the oven, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This waiting time helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making it extra juicy when you cut into it.
Enjoy your deliciously juicy and flavorful oven baked chicken breasts!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
It’s best to use thawed chicken for even cooking. If you only have frozen chicken, make sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight or use the cold water method (seal in a bag and submerge in cold water) for quicker thawing before proceeding with the recipe.
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can season the chicken breasts and keep them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just take them out about 30 minutes before cooking to bring them to room temperature for more even cooking.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist.
Can I Use Different Seasonings?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. Lemon pepper, Cajun seasoning, or even a marinade can add a unique twist to this dish. Just adjust to your taste preference!