This oven-baked chicken breast is juicy, tender, and super simple to make! Just season it, pop it in the oven, and let the magic happen!
I love that I can have a healthy meal ready in no time. It’s perfect for busy nights, and leftovers are great for salads or sandwiches. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep the dish lean and easy. If you have thighs, they can be juicier and add extra flavor. Just adjust the cooking time, as they may take a bit longer.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps seasonings stick. If you’re out of olive oil, you can use avocado oil or canola oil. I’ve found that grapeseed oil is a great substitute too, with a similar healthy profile.
Seasonings: Garlic powder and paprika bring a nice flavor. If you want to mix it up, try using onion powder or Italian seasoning instead. Fresh garlic works great if you prefer a stronger taste—just mince it up!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Breasts Are Juicy?
To keep chicken breasts juicy, it’s essential to not overcook them. Always preheat your oven and use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Here’s how to do it:
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning; this helps the oil and spices to stick.
- Rub the olive oil evenly, which locks in moisture during baking.
- After baking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes; this helps redistribute juices.
Following these steps will give you tender and juicy chicken every time! Enjoy your meal!
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 salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for garnish
Time Needed:
This simple recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 18-20 minutes to bake. Including resting time, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and gets that nice golden color.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Using paper towels, pat the chicken breasts dry. This helps the seasoning stick better and results in a nice texture.
3. Coat with Olive Oil:
Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet or in a baking dish. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken, making sure to rub it in to coat evenly. This will keep the chicken moist while baking!
4. Season the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning mixture generously over both sides of the chicken breasts.
5. Bake the Chicken:
Put the baking sheet or dish in the oven and bake the chicken for 18-20 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
6. Let It Rest:
Once done, take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken extra juicy!
7. Serve:
Finally, garnish with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary if you like, then slice and serve. Enjoy your easy and tasty oven-baked chicken breast!
FAQ
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
It’s best to thaw chicken breasts before baking. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or use the cold water method: seal in a plastic bag and submerge in cold water for about an hour, changing the water halfway through.
Can I Add Other Seasonings?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix up the seasonings based on your preference. Italian herbs, lemon zest, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan can enhance the flavor. Just remember to adjust the amounts to avoid overwhelming the chicken.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
What Should I Serve with the Chicken?
This chicken pairs well with a variety of sides! Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or over rice or pasta to soak up any delicious juices. Enjoy!
