This oven-baked chicken breast is super simple and oh-so-juicy! Just season your chicken, pop it in the oven, and let it work its magic while you relax.
You can’t go wrong with this recipe! I love making it on busy days when I want something tasty without much hassle. Pair it with rice or veggies for a yummy dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe. If you’re looking for a healthier option, chicken thighs could work too! They’re juicier and more forgiving if slightly overcooked.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps the spices stick. If you don’t have olive oil, canola or avocado oil are good substitutes. They have a high smoke point and keep things juicy!
Garlic and Onion Powder: These bring in flavor without the fuss of chopping. For a fresh touch, try minced garlic and onions but remember to adjust cooking time slightly.
Paprika: This gives a nice color and a hint of smokiness. You can swap it with smoked paprika for a more intense flavor or omit it if you prefer a milder taste.
Herbs: Adding Italian herbs or thyme gives an extra kick. If you don’t have any dried herbs, fresh ones work too—just use double the amount!
How Do You Keep Chicken Breasts From Drying Out?
Keeping chicken breasts juicy is crucial, and here are some tips to make sure that happens:
- Preheat the oven properly; starting with a hot oven helps seal in moisture.
- Pat the chicken dry to remove moisture. This helps the oil and seasonings stick better.
- Don’t overbake! Check the internal temperature around 18 minutes. Remove from the oven when it hits 165°F (75°C).
- Rest the chicken before slicing. This lets the juices redistribute for a more tender bite.
With these simple steps, you’ll always end up with juicy, flavorful chicken breasts ready for any meal!
Easy Oven Baked Chicken Breast Recipe for Juicy Meals
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs or dried thyme
- Cooking spray or additional olive oil, for greasing the baking dish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 18–22 minutes to bake, plus an additional 5 minutes of resting time before serving. In total, you’ll be looking at around 30 minutes from start to finish for a delicious, juicy chicken meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, take a baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or a little more olive oil. This ensures the chicken doesn’t stick and helps with cleanup!
2. Get Your Chicken Ready:
Pat the chicken breasts dry using paper towels. This step is super important! It removes any excess moisture, allowing the seasonings to stick better and cook evenly.
3. Mix the Seasonings:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and any dried herbs if you’re using them. Mix until well blended to create a tasty coating for the chicken.
4. Coat the Chicken:
Now it’s time to brush or rub that flavorful olive oil mixture all over both sides of each chicken breast. Make sure each piece is coated evenly for maximum flavor!
5. Bake the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish, ensuring they are spaced evenly apart. This helps them cook uniformly. Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 18–22 minutes.
6. Check for Doneness:
After 18 minutes, check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer—it should read 165°F (75°C). If the juices run clear, you’re all set! Just be careful not to overbake, as that will dry out the chicken.
7. Rest for Juiciness:
Once out of the oven, remove the chicken and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, keeping each bite tender and juicy!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the chicken if you prefer and serve it warm alongside your favorite sides, like roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your delicious, oven-baked chicken breast!
This method yields flavorful, moist chicken breasts with minimal effort, perfect for easy weeknight dinners or meal prep. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
No, it’s best to use thawed chicken breasts for even cooking and proper seasoning adherence. If you only have frozen chicken, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave before proceeding with the recipe.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
You can make this recipe healthier by reducing the amount of olive oil or replacing it with a light cooking spray. Additionally, seasoning with fresh herbs, citrus juice, or vinegar can add flavor without extra calories.
What Are Some Good Side Dishes to Serve with Oven Baked Chicken Breast?
This chicken pairs well with a variety of side dishes! Consider serving it with steamed vegetables, quinoa, brown rice, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. You can also try mashed potatoes or sweet potato fries for a comfort food twist!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep them moist.
