Easy Oven Baked Chicken Breast Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless breasts are great for this recipe, as they cook evenly. Feel free to substitute with chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier option!

Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps the spices stick. You can swap it for avocado oil or melted butter if you wish.

Garlic Powder: Adds nice flavor. If you don’t have it, minced fresh garlic or garlic salt can work too, but adjust salt levels accordingly.

Seasonings: Paprika gives a lovely color and slight sweetness. You could replace it with chili powder for a spicy kick or omit it altogether if you prefer a milder taste.

How Do I Ensure Juicy Chicken Breasts?

Keeping chicken breasts juicy can be tricky, but there are some simple tricks! Start by patting them dry to ensure they’re not too moist before seasoning. This helps the spices stick better and promotes even cooking.

• Cook at 400°F so the outside browns quickly and seals in moisture.
• Use a meat thermometer to make sure it reaches 165°F—no more, to prevent it from drying out.
• Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking. This step is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

Easy Oven Baked Chicken Breast

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or dried oregano/basil)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake, making the total time around 30-35 minutes. It’s a quick and easy solution for a delicious chicken dinner!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the oven is hot enough to cook the chicken evenly and lock in moisture.

2. Prepare the Chicken:

Once the oven is ready, take out the chicken breasts. Pat them dry with paper towels. This step is important as it helps the seasoning stick better and gives a nice browning.

3. Make the Seasoning Mix:

In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well until it forms a consistent mixture.

4. Season the Chicken:

Now, take the seasoning mixture and rub it evenly over both sides of each chicken breast. Make sure every piece is well-coated to enhance the flavor.

5. Bake the Chicken:

Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a lightly greased baking dish or on a parchment-lined sheet. Slide it into your preheated oven.

6. Check for Doneness:

Bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes. To ensure it’s cooked perfectly, check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer—it should reach 165°F (74°C).

7. Rest the Chicken:

Once done, take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute inside, keeping the chicken juicy and tender.

8. Serve:

Slice the chicken if you’d like, and serve it with your favorite sides! Roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad all pair wonderfully!

Enjoy your simple, juicy, oven-baked chicken breasts!

FAQ for Easy Oven Baked Chicken Breast

Can I Use Bone-In Chicken for This Recipe?

While this recipe is designed for boneless, skinless chicken breasts, you can use bone-in pieces. Just keep in mind that they will require a longer cooking time, around 30-40 minutes, depending on the size. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?

Absolutely! Marinating the chicken in the olive oil and seasoning mix overnight enhances the flavor and tenderness. Just make sure to cover it and store it in the refrigerator.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat to keep it moist. A splash of broth can help add moisture during reheating!

What Sides Pair Well with This Chicken?

There are plenty of delicious sides to serve with your chicken! Some great options include roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, quinoa, or a fresh salad. Feel free to get creative with flavors!