This easy oven-baked chicken breast is juicy, tender, and super simple to make. Just season, bake, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
I love that I can whip this up on busy nights. Pair it with some veggies, and you’ve got a tasty dinner. Plus, no frying means less mess—win-win! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for quick cooking. If you prefer dark meat, use boneless thighs instead. They’ll be slightly juicy and forgiving if overcooked.
Olive Oil: This helps the seasoning stick and adds moisture. If you’re out of olive oil, melted butter or avocado oil work well, too!
Seasonings: Garlic powder and paprika give flavor and color. You can swap garlic powder for minced garlic and paprika with chili powder for a bit of heat. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary also make tasty additions.
Garnish: Fresh parsley brightens the dish. Don’t have it? Chopped green onions or cilantro are great substitutes to add freshness.
How Do You Bake Chicken Breast Without Drying It Out?
The key to juicy chicken breasts is not overcooking them. Here are some tips to keep them moist:
- Pat the chicken dry to help the oil and seasoning stick, which also helps with browning.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C); it’s high enough to seal in moisture but not too high to dry them out.
- Check the internal temperature around 20 minutes using a meat thermometer. Remove them at 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking. This helps redistribute the juices, making it more tender.
Easy Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to bake, so you’ll be enjoying your delicious chicken dinner in less than 30 minutes total! It’s perfect for busy weeknight meals.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This helps ensure the chicken cooks evenly and stays juicy.
2. Prepare the Chicken
Use paper towels to pat the chicken breasts dry. This helps the oil and spices stick better, and it promotes nice browning.
3. Make the Seasoning Mix
In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. This blend adds lots of flavor to your chicken!
4. Season the Chicken
Brush both sides of the chicken breasts with olive oil. Then, sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides. Make sure to coat them well!
5. Bake the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Bake them in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until their internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let It Rest and Serve
Once baked, take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This step is crucial for keeping the juices inside. Garnish with fresh parsley if you like, and enjoy your meal!
This simple recipe produces juicy, flavorful chicken breasts perfect for quick dinners or meal prep. Enjoy!
FAQ: Easy Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
It’s best to use thawed chicken breasts for this recipe. If you have frozen chicken, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or submerge it in cold water (in a sealed bag) for a quick thaw. Make sure the poultry is fully thawed for even cooking.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Stays Moist?
To prevent drying out, avoid overcooking! Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F (74°C). Additionally, letting the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking helps retain moisture.
What Are Some Good Side Dishes for This Chicken?
This chicken pairs well with a variety of sides! Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or over rice or pasta to soak up the delicious juices.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to keep it moist.
