This easy oven-baked chicken breast is super juicy and packed with flavor! With just a few simple spices, you can create a delicious meal that the whole family will love.
I love how quick it is to whip up. Just season, pop it in the oven, and you have a tasty dinner without any fuss—perfect for those busy nights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe as they cook quickly and stay tender. If you need something different, try skin-on chicken thighs for a richer flavor or even pounded chicken cutlets for quicker cooking.
Olive Oil: This is great for keeping the chicken moist. You can substitute it with avocado oil or melted butter if you prefer. Just remember that butter might give a slightly different flavor.
Garlic and Onion Powder: These add depth to your chicken. If you’re out, you can use fresh minced garlic or onions, but reduce the cooking time since fresh usually cooks faster.
Paprika: It adds a lovely smokiness. If you want less spice, try sweet paprika. For a kick, use smoked paprika or even cayenne pepper to taste.
Italian Herbs: While optional, they enhance flavor. If you don’t have them, you can use any dried herbs you like, such as parsley or basil, or skip herbs altogether.
How Do You Ensure Your Chicken Breast Stays Juicy?
The key to juicy chicken breast is all in the preparation and cooking technique. Here’s how to make sure your chicken doesn’t turn out dry:
- Dry the Chicken: Patting the chicken dry helps the oil and spices to stick better, creating a nice crust.
- Use Olive Oil: It seals in moisture while cooking. Coat the chicken well but don’t drown it.
- Don’t Overcook: Cook until it reaches 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature accurately!
- Let It Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after cooking helps redistribute the juices, making each slice much juicier.
Easy Oven Baked Chicken Breast Recipe for Juicy Results
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, thyme, or rosemary)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’ll spend around 30-35 minutes to create a delicious, juicy oven-baked chicken meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and gets a nice golden color.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Next, take your chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This is an important step to remove any excess moisture, which will help the chicken get that crispy coating.
3. Add Olive Oil:
Rub the olive oil evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts. This not only helps the spices stick but also keeps the chicken juicy while it cooks.
4. Mix the Seasonings:
In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and any dried herbs you choose. This will create a flavorful spice blend!
5. Season the Chicken:
Now, sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts. Make sure to rub it gently into the meat so that it sticks well.
6. Bake the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish or on a rimmed baking sheet. Pop them into the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy!
7. Let It Rest:
Once your chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This step is key for keeping the juices locked in!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the chicken and serve it warm with your favorite sides, like roasted veggies or a fresh salad. Enjoy your juicy and flavorful oven-baked chicken breasts!
FAQ for Easy Oven Baked Chicken Breast Recipe
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
It’s best to use thawed chicken breasts to ensure even cooking. If you have frozen chicken, let them thaw overnight in the fridge or use the quick method by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and submerging in cold water for about an hour.
Can I Make This Recipe with Bone-In Chicken?
Yes, you can! However, bone-in chicken tends to take longer to cook. Adjust the baking time to about 30-40 minutes, and check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) before serving.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it moist.
What Sides Pair Well With This Chicken?
This baked chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, brown rice, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
