This oven-baked chicken breast is juicy and full of flavor. With just a few spices and a drizzle of olive oil, you’ll have a simple yet tasty meal on your table!
I enjoy making this on busy days because it’s quick and requires little prep. Just pop it in the oven and relax—easy-peasy!
Served with veggies or over rice, it becomes a delightful dinner. Plus, leftovers are perfect for sandwiches! Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are easy to work with and cook evenly. If you’re looking for a healthier option, chicken thighs can work too. They’re juicier, just adjust the cooking time as they may need a bit longer.
Olive Oil: Olive oil is great for flavor, but feel free to substitute it with avocado oil or melted butter. For a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of oil used without affecting the taste too much.
Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and dried herbs add fantastic flavor. If you’re out of these, try fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. They may need a bit more, so taste as you go.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish, but lime juice can be a refreshing substitute. If you have no citrus, vinegar can add tanginess, though it will change the flavor a bit.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Breast is Juicy and Tender?
Cooking chicken breast can be tricky since it tends to dry out. Here’s how to keep it juicy:
- Start your oven at the right temperature – 400°F is perfect for cooking through without drying out.
- Make sure your chicken breasts are patted dry. This helps the oil and seasonings stick better.
- Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes after baking. This lets the juices redistribute, ensuring a juicy bite.
Once you master these tips, your chicken will come out moist every time! Enjoy your meal with a nice side, perhaps a salad or some roasted veggies.
How to Make Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or oregano/basil)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
For Garnishing:
- Lemon slices
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need around 40 minutes from start to finish. While it’s baking, you can tidy up or prepare your favorite sides!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s nice and hot, perfect for baking your chicken.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps to achieve a nice, golden color when cooked. Next, place the chicken in a baking dish where they can fit comfortably.
3. Add the Olive Oil:
Drizzle the olive oil over both chicken breasts. Use your hands or a brush to make sure each piece is well coated. This will keep the chicken moist and add flavor!
4. Mix the Seasonings:
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir to blend everything together.
5. Season the Chicken:
Now, rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken breasts. Make sure to cover every part so the flavors really soak in. It’s going to smell amazing!
6. Add Lemon Flavor:
Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the seasoned chicken breasts. This adds a lovely zesty flavor! Place a few lemon slices around the chicken in the baking dish for extra brightness.
7. Bake the Chicken:
Now, it’s time to pop the dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear. Use a meat thermometer to check; it should read 165°F (74°C).
8. Let It Rest:
Once the chicken is cooked, take it out of the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This will keep it juicy and tender.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color. Enjoy your delicious oven-baked chicken breast with your favorite side dishes!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it’s important to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to thaw is by placing them in the fridge overnight. If you’re short on time, you can seal them in a plastic bag and submerge them in cold water for about an hour. Just remember to pat the chicken dry before seasoning!
What Can I Use Instead of Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil, you can substitute it with other oils such as avocado oil or vegetable oil. They have high smoke points and similar flavor profiles, which will work well in this recipe.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but be sure to use a lower power setting to avoid drying out the chicken.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus to the baking dish. Just slice them and toss them with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper before adding them alongside the chicken for a complete meal!
