This easy oven-baked chicken breast is a winner for juicy, tender bites. You just season, bake, and enjoy! It’s so simple, you might make it twice a week!
Trust me, this recipe makes dinner a breeze! I love how I can throw in my favorite veggies on the side and it all cooks together. Delicious and easy—what’s not to love? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star here. They cook quickly and stay tender. If you prefer, you can use thighs for more flavor or even bone-in chicken, but adjust cooking times accordingly.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds healthy fats and flavor. If it’s unavailable, avocado oil or melted butter works just as well.
Seasonings: Garlic and onion powder are great for depth of flavor. You can swap them out for fresh garlic and onion or use a seasoning blend you enjoy, like taco seasoning for a twist!
Herbs: Dried Italian seasoning adds a savory touch. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary would also enhance the dish. If you’re out, try just salt and pepper for simplicity.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken is Juicy?
To achieve juicy chicken, moisture retention is key. Start by patting the chicken breasts dry before seasoning. This allows for better browning and flavor absorption.
- Preturn your oven to a high heat (425°F) to create a nice sear.
- Letting the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking locks in the juices. Don’t skip this step!
- Using a meat thermometer is ideal. Aim for 165°F inside to ensure it’s cooked without drying out.
Easy Oven Baked Chicken Breast for Juicy, Tender Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or dried oregano/basil)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Optional: fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 5 minutes of prep time and 18-20 minutes of bake time. After baking, allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving. So, in total, you’re looking at about 30 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature helps to get a nice sear on the chicken, ensuring it stays juicy.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This step is important because it helps the chicken brown nicely and prevents steaming during baking.
3. Get Seasoned:
Place the chicken breasts in a lined baking dish or on a baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil over each piece, making sure to rub it all over for an even coat.
4. Mix the Spices:
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This flavorful blend will bring life to your chicken!
5. Season the Chicken:
Evenly sprinkle the seasoning mixture over both sides of the chicken breasts. Use your hands to massage the spices into the meat for extra flavor.
6. Bake It Up:
Now it’s time to bake! Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and let the chicken bake uncovered for 18-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness
7. Rest and Serve:
Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This step lets the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist and delicious.
8. Garnish & Enjoy:
Garnish your chicken with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Don’t forget to serve with lemon wedges for an extra zesty kick if you like!
Enjoy your delicious and juicy oven-baked chicken breast! This recipe pairs wonderfully with your choice of veggies, rice, or salad for a complete meal.
FAQ for Easy Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
It’s best to use thawed chicken for this recipe to ensure even cooking. If using frozen chicken, thaw it in the fridge overnight or in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water before proceeding with the recipe.
How Can I Make the Chicken More Flavorful?
For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the olive oil and seasonings for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight) before baking. This allows the spices to penetrate the meat more deeply.
Can I Store Leftover Chicken?
Absolutely! Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the microwave or warm it in a skillet until heated through. You might want to add a splash of broth or olive oil to keep it moist while reheating.
What Can I Serve with This Chicken?
This chicken goes well with a variety of sides! Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, steamed rice, or mashed potatoes. It’s versatile enough to complement many dishes!
