Oven Baked Chicken Breast

Oven Baked Chicken Breast is a versatile, easy-to-make dish that’s tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this recipe guarantees perfectly cooked chicken every time.

Often, baked chicken breasts are thought to be dry and bland, but with the right techniques and seasonings, they can be transformed into a flavorful and succulent dish. The secret lies in using a marinade, seasoning generously, and baking at the optimal temperature to lock in moisture. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll have a dish that pairs well with almost any side and works beautifully in salads, sandwiches, or casseroles.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple and Quick: Requires minimal ingredients and is ready in under 30 minutes.
Healthy and Lean: Chicken breasts are an excellent source of lean protein.
Juicy and Flavorful: Seasoning and proper baking techniques ensure the chicken stays moist.
Versatile: Perfect as a standalone main dish or as an ingredient in countless recipes.
Meal Prep Friendly: Store the chicken for easy, protein-packed meals throughout the week.

Preparation Time and Servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Rest Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Serving Size: 1 chicken breast

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 220 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Protein: 38g
• Fat: 6g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 0g

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Garnish (Optional):

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board. If they are uneven in thickness, pound them gently with a meat mallet or rolling pin to create uniform pieces. This ensures even cooking.
2. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Dry chicken browns better and absorbs seasoning more effectively.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

1. In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper to create a marinade.
2. Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

1. Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the thickest part of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

1. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken tender and moist.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for added flavor.

Ingredient Background

Chicken Breasts

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a lean source of protein and an ideal base for countless flavor profiles. Pounding them to an even thickness ensures consistent cooking.

Olive Oil

Olive oil not only helps the seasoning adhere to the chicken but also promotes browning, enhancing both flavor and presentation.

Smoked Paprika

This spice adds a subtle smokiness and depth of flavor, complementing the chicken beautifully.

Garlic and Onion Powder

These pantry staples provide a savory foundation, enhancing the overall taste of the chicken.

Lemon

Adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving brightens the dish, balancing the richness of the olive oil and seasonings.

Technique Tips

Pound the Chicken: Use a meat mallet to pound the chicken to an even thickness for uniform cooking and to prevent overcooking thinner areas.

Season Generously: Don’t skimp on seasoning; it’s the key to flavorful chicken. Adjust spices based on your taste preferences.

Use a Meat Thermometer: Check the internal temperature to ensure the chicken is fully cooked without being overdone.

Let It Rest: Allow the chicken to rest after baking to lock in the juices and prevent them from escaping when sliced.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

Stuffed Chicken: Slice a pocket into the chicken breast and stuff with cheese, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes before baking.

Sheet Pan Meal: Add vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or green beans to the baking sheet for a one-pan dinner.

Grilled Style: Finish the baked chicken under the broiler for 2–3 minutes to achieve a charred, grilled effect.

Herb Crust: Coat the chicken with breadcrumbs and fresh herbs for a crispy, flavorful crust.

Additional Tips for Success

Bring to Room Temperature: Let the chicken rest at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.

Don’t Overbake: Chicken is done when it reaches 165°F (74°C). Overbaking can lead to dryness, so monitor closely with a thermometer.

Use High Heat: Baking at 425°F (220°C) helps seal in moisture and creates a lightly browned exterior.

Recipe Variations

Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning mix for a spicy kick.

Lemon Herb Chicken: Incorporate fresh rosemary, thyme, or oregano into the seasoning blend for an herbaceous twist.

Honey Mustard Chicken: Mix honey and Dijon mustard with the olive oil for a sweet and tangy marinade.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken: Top the chicken with a mixture of minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs before baking for extra flavor.

Freezing and Storing

Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to avoid drying it out.

Freezing: Wrap each baked chicken breast tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating: To retain moisture, reheat the chicken in a covered dish in the oven at 325°F (165°C) or microwave it with a damp paper towel covering it.

Healthier Twist Ideas

Use Less Oil: Reduce the olive oil to 1 tablespoon, or use a calorie-free cooking spray to minimize fat content.

Go Sodium-Free: Substitute salt with a sodium-free seasoning blend for a heart-healthy option.

Add Veggies: Pair the chicken with roasted vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers for a nutrient-packed meal.

Whole Spices: Grind your own whole spices for a fresher, more aromatic flavor profile without added preservatives.

Serving Suggestions for Events

Weeknight Dinner: For a quick and satisfying family meal, pair the baked chicken with comforting sides like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted carrots, or steamed green beans. Drizzle the chicken with a light gravy or pan sauce for added flavor. Complete the meal with a crusty dinner roll or a side of garlic bread.

Meal Prep: Baked chicken breasts are a meal prep hero. Slice the chicken into strips or cubes and store them in airtight containers with whole grains like rice or quinoa and your favorite roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers. Add a small container of hummus, tzatziki, or vinaigrette for dipping to make your lunches more exciting.

Elegant Dinner Party: For a refined presentation, serve the chicken on a large platter surrounded by roasted asparagus or blanched haricots verts. Spoon a rich, creamy mushroom sauce or a tangy lemon butter sauce over the top and garnish with fresh parsley or thyme. Pair the dish with a crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, to elevate the meal.

Picnic Fare: Slice the baked chicken and layer it into sandwiches or wraps with fresh lettuce, ripe tomato slices, and a flavorful spread like pesto mayo, honey mustard, or chipotle aioli. Add a slice of cheese and a handful of arugula for extra flair. Serve alongside potato chips, coleslaw, or a fresh fruit salad for a complete picnic spread.

Potluck Crowd-Pleaser: Bring this chicken to a potluck by slicing it into bite-sized pieces and arranging it on a platter with toothpicks for easy serving. Pair with dipping sauces like barbecue, ranch, or garlic aioli to give your dish a party-friendly twist.

Special Equipment

Meat Mallet: A meat mallet is essential for pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness, which ensures they cook evenly without drying out. If you don’t have a meat mallet, a rolling pin or the flat side of a heavy skillet works as a substitute.

Baking Sheet: A rimmed baking sheet is ideal for even cooking and prevents juices from spilling over into your oven. Choose a heavy-duty baking sheet for durability and consistent heat distribution.

Parchment Paper: Lining the baking sheet with parchment paper ensures the chicken doesn’t stick, making cleanup quick and hassle-free. It also helps keep the chicken juices contained, preventing excessive browning or burning on the pan.

Meat Thermometer: A reliable meat thermometer is the best way to guarantee perfectly cooked chicken. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken breast to ensure it reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Digital thermometers with instant-read capabilities are especially convenient.

Wire Rack (Optional): Place a wire rack on your baking sheet to elevate the chicken during cooking. This promotes even air circulation around the chicken, ensuring a perfectly crisp exterior.

By combining thoughtful serving ideas and the right tools, you can make this Oven Baked Chicken Breast recipe a versatile and stress-free addition to any meal or event.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why is my chicken dry?
   Overbaking is the most common cause. Use a meat thermometer to remove the chicken as soon as it reaches 165°F (74°C).
2. Can I marinate the chicken?
   Absolutely! Marinate the chicken in your favorite mixture (like lemon, olive oil, and herbs) for 2–4 hours before baking.
3. Can I use bone-in chicken breasts?
   Yes, but adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken cooks through. Bone-in chicken may take 5–10 minutes longer.
4. Can I bake the chicken in foil?
   Wrapping the chicken in foil can help retain moisture, but it won’t develop the same golden-brown exterior.
5. What’s the best way to reheat baked chicken?
   Reheat in the oven at 325°F (165°C) with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
6. Can I add sauces?
   Yes! Serve the chicken with barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or a creamy garlic sauce for extra flavor.
7. What if I don’t have smoked paprika?
   Regular paprika works fine, or you can substitute chili powder for a slightly spicier flavor.
8. Can I double the recipe?
   Yes, just ensure the chicken breasts are spaced out on the baking sheet to allow even cooking.

Conclusion

Oven Baked Chicken Breast is a versatile, healthy, and flavorful dish that belongs in everyone’s recipe collection. With its juicy texture and customizable seasonings, this easy-to-make recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, elegant dinners, or meal prep.

By following simple techniques like pounding the chicken to an even thickness, seasoning generously, and baking at high heat, you’ll achieve tender and delicious chicken every time. Pair it with your favorite sides or use it as a base for salads, sandwiches, and casseroles. Try this recipe today and discover how satisfying oven-baked chicken can be!

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