This easy oven-baked chicken breast is juicy and full of flavor, making it a simple yet satisfying meal. It’s perfect for a quick dinner or meal prep!
You just season, pop it in the oven, and let it do its thing. I love serving it with veggies or on top of a salad—so tasty and healthy! 🍗✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe. If you want a cheaper option, you can use thighs instead, which stay juicier during baking.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps seasonings stick. If you’re looking for alternatives, avocado oil or melted butter work great, too.
Spices: Garlic powder and paprika bring flavor without extra work. If you prefer fresh, use minced garlic or other spices like cumin or Italian seasoning for a different taste.
Garnish: Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme not only look nice but add a fresh flavor. If fresh isn’t available, dried herbs are a good substitute.
How Can You Ensure Your Chicken Stays Juicy?
To keep chicken breasts juicy, focus on drying them well before seasoning. This helps the skin crisp up. Also, remember to let them rest after baking—this allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite tender.
- Preheat your oven for even cooking.
- Season thoroughly with oil and spices.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest for 5 minutes before cutting into the chicken.
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 dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious oven-baked chicken breast recipe will take about 10 minutes of preparation time and 20-25 minutes of cooking time, totaling around 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and gets that golden, slightly crispy exterior.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps to remove moisture and will allow the seasonings to adhere better.
3. Mix Your Seasonings:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir it together until well mixed.
4. Coat the Chicken:
Using a brush or your hands, apply the olive oil mixture generously on both sides of the chicken breasts. Make sure they are well coated for maximum flavor!
5. Bake the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on a baking sheet or in a baking dish. Slide them into your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let It Rest:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and tender.
7. Garnish and Serve:
If you wish, sprinkle some fresh parsley or thyme on top for a burst of color and flavor. Slice up your juicy oven-baked chicken breast and enjoy!
Enjoy your delicious, juicy oven-baked chicken breast with your favorite sides!
FAQ for Easy Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
It’s best to use thawed chicken breasts for even cooking. If you only have frozen chicken, thaw it safely by placing it in the refrigerator overnight or submerging it in cold water for a quicker option, changing the water every 30 minutes until thawed.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the chicken overnight in the olive oil and spice mixture will enhance the flavor and tenderness. Just remember to cover it properly and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. To keep it tender, add a splash of chicken broth or water while reheating.
What Can I Serve with This Chicken?
This oven-baked chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, quinoa, or pasta. It’s versatile and can fit into many meals!
