This easy oven baked chicken breast is juicy and full of flavor! With just a few simple seasonings, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
I love how this dish can be cooked alongside veggies for a complete dinner. Plus, who doesn’t enjoy a quick clean-up? It’s a win-win! 🍗✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for even cooking and tenderness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use chicken tenders instead. They will cook a bit faster!
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and flavor. If you prefer a different taste, avocado oil or melted coconut oil are excellent substitutes.
Garlic Powder: It offers a delightful flavor without the chopping! You could also use fresh minced garlic (about 2 cloves), but remember to adjust the amount to your liking.
Paprika: This gives a great color and mild spice. If you like it spicier, opt for smoked paprika or hot paprika for a kick!
Italian Seasoning: It’s a convenient blend, but you can mix dried oregano, basil, and thyme separately if you have those on hand. Fresh herbs can also work wonders!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Breasts Stay Juicy?
To keep chicken breasts juicy, two key techniques matter: drying and resting. Drying the chicken helps the oil and seasonings stick better, while resting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
- Start by patting the chicken with paper towels. This step is easy and makes a big difference in texture.
- After baking, let the chicken sit for about 5 minutes. This patience pays off in flavor!
Easy Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: lemon wedges for serving
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 18-20 minutes of cooking. Plus, you’ll want to let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking. Overall, you can have a delicious meal ready in about 35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, line a baking dish or sheet with parchment paper, or give it a light grease with cooking spray. This will help with easy cleanup later!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is important because it removes excess moisture, allowing the oil and seasonings to stick better.
3. Mix the Seasonings:
In a small bowl, mix together garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. This blend will give the chicken fantastic flavor!
4. Oil and Season the Chicken:
Brush both sides of the chicken breasts with olive oil. Then, take the seasoning mixture and sprinkle it evenly over both sides of the chicken, pressing gently to help it stick.
5. Bake the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish in a single layer. Slide the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.
6. Let it Rest:
Once done, take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Resting helps keep the chicken juicy!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your chicken with fresh parsley for a pop of color, and serve with lemon wedges if you like a bit of zest. Enjoy your juicy and flavorful oven-baked chicken breasts!
FAQ
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw them first! To thaw, place the chicken in the refrigerator overnight or use the cold water method by sealing it in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about 1-2 hours. Once thawed, pat dry and season as directed.
Can I Adjust the Seasoning?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the spice blend according to your taste. You can add chili powder for heat, or swap out the Italian seasoning for your favorite dried herbs like rosemary or thyme. Just remember to adjust the salt accordingly!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a baking dish covered with foil in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Alternatively, you can use a microwave for quick reheating.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, and it’s simple! You can season the chicken breasts a few hours in advance and keep them in the refrigerator. Just remember to let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking for even cooking.
