If you’re searching for a recipe that promises juicy, flavorful results every single time, look no further than this Oven Baked Chicken Breast! With a handful of staple ingredients and a few simple steps, you’ll have perfectly seasoned, tender chicken that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or hosting a casual dinner, this dish quickly becomes a trusted favorite in any kitchen. Let’s dive in and discover why this is my go-to method for mouthwatering Oven Baked Chicken Breast!
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this Oven Baked Chicken Breast so outstanding is the balance of flavors brought by a handful of kitchen staples. Each ingredient plays its own unique part in creating juicy, savory chicken with the perfect golden finish. Here’s what you’ll need, plus a little chef’s tip for every item:
- Chicken Breasts: Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for quick cooking and easy slicing — try to select equally sized pieces for even baking.
- Olive Oil: Olive oil locks in moisture and helps the seasoning adhere, ensuring every bite is succulent and well-flavored.
- Garlic Powder: For a mellow, savory garlic flavor that infuses the chicken without overwhelming it — no mincing required!
- Onion Powder: This powerful powder adds depth and a subtle sweetness that brings out the best in roasted meats.
- Paprika: Sweet and smoky paprika delivers beautiful color and a warm, earthy undertone to the crust.
- Italian Seasoning: A ready-made blend of herbs (like basil, oregano, and thyme) instantly adds a Mediterranean flair.
- Salt: Seasons the chicken beautifully, enhancing all the other flavors — don’t skip the salt!
- Black Pepper: A little kick of pepper gives balance and brightness to the finished dish.
How to Make Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) so it’s nice and hot. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup, or lightly grease it for crispier edges. Then, place the chicken breasts on the sheet and pat each piece dry with paper towels — this is my secret to getting that golden, slightly crisp exterior! If your chicken breasts vary in thickness, give them a quick pound with a meat mallet for even cooking.
Step 2: Mix the Seasoning
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. This aromatic blend is what transforms your chicken from plain to truly irresistible. Make sure the seasonings are well mixed so each bite of chicken will be perfectly balanced.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
Rub the olive oil and spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts. Don’t be shy — use your hands to make sure every nook and cranny is coated. This simple step seals in moisture and ensures that gorgeous, golden color once baked.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and let the magic happen! Bake the chicken for 18 to 20 minutes, depending on the size of your chicken breasts. The goal: a juicy Oven Baked Chicken Breast that reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you’re unsure, a quick check with an instant-read thermometer does wonders.
Step 5: Rest and Slice
Once baked, take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This brief pause is crucial — it allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in bite-after-bite tenderness. Slice and admire your handiwork before serving!
How to Serve Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of herbal freshness. You can also zest a little lemon over the top, or drizzle a touch of extra virgin olive oil for a glossy, appetizing finish. For a little kick, try a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Side Dishes
This Oven Baked Chicken Breast is incredibly versatile. Pair it with classic mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, a crisp green salad, or buttery rice pilaf. It’s also fantastic next to seasoned quinoa or a tangle of garlicky pasta. The tender, juicy chicken soaks up sauces and dressings beautifully!
Creative Ways to Present
Sliced Oven Baked Chicken Breast looks gorgeous over a big, vibrant salad or tucked into wraps with your favorite veggies. For meal prep, dice the chicken and portion into bowls with grains and roasted vegetables for convenient, nutritious lunches. It also makes a wonderful sandwich filling when thinly sliced and paired with crunchy lettuce and creamy spread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let your oven baked chicken breast cool to room temperature, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay tender and flavorful for up to 4 days. Sliced or whole, it’s easy to grab and use in all sorts of dishes.
Freezing
For longer storage, wrap each chicken breast tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place in a freezer-safe zip-top bag or airtight container. Frozen Oven Baked Chicken Breast keeps beautifully for up to three months. Remember to label with the date for easy reference!
Reheating
Gentle reheating is key for maintaining juiciness. Warm your chicken in a covered skillet with a splash of broth or water over low heat, or microwave gently in 30-second intervals until heated through. Avoid high heat, which can dry out the chicken.
FAQs
How do I keep Oven Baked Chicken Breast from drying out?
Pounding the chicken to an even thickness helps ensure even baking, and patting it dry before seasoning encourages a crisp (never soggy) exterior. Don’t overbake; remove from the oven as soon as it reaches 165°F internally, and always let it rest before slicing.
Can I marinate the chicken in the spices ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can mix the seasoning and olive oil, coat the chicken, and refrigerate it for up to 8 hours before baking. This extra step intensifies the flavor — just remember to bring the chicken to room temperature before putting it in the oven.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, Oven Baked Chicken Breast is completely gluten-free as written, making it an ideal option for anyone avoiding gluten or preparing food for guests with dietary restrictions.
Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Definitely. While this method is tailored for boneless, skinless chicken breasts, you can follow the same steps with boneless thighs. Adjust the baking time as needed — thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
How can I tell when the chicken is done?
The most accurate method is to use an instant-read thermometer; your Oven Baked Chicken Breast is ready when the thickest part hits 165°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, slice into the center — the juices should run clear and there should be no pinkness.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited to try this Oven Baked Chicken Breast as I am to share it. It’s a weeknight wonder and a weekend treat, packed with flavor, easy to customize, and truly foolproof. Don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular star on your dinner table — happy cooking!
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Oven Baked Chicken Breast Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and moist oven-baked chicken breasts with a flavorful seasoning blend. This easy recipe results in juicy chicken that’s perfect for a quick and healthy dinner.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare the chicken: Place chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Pat dry with paper towels.
- Mix seasoning: In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Season chicken: Rub seasoning mix over both sides of chicken breasts.
- Bake: Bake for 18-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and serve: Remove from oven, rest for 5 minutes, then slice and serve.
Notes
- For juicier chicken, pound breasts to even thickness before seasoning.
- Resting the chicken post-baking helps retain juices.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 330mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
