This easy oven-baked chicken breast is juicy and tasty! With just a few simple spices, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights!
I love how quickly this chicken cooks. Just season, pop it in the oven, and get ready to enjoy! I serve it with veggies or on a salad, and it always hits the spot!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe since they’re lean and cook quickly. If you prefer dark meat, use boneless thighs instead. Just adjust the cooking time since thighs may take a bit longer.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds moisture and helps the spices stick. You can substitute it with avocado oil or melted butter if you like. Both options add a nice flavor!
Garlic Powder: This gives a lovely garlic flavor without the hassle of fresh garlic. If you’re out, you can use minced fresh garlic (just reduce the amount) or garlic salt, but cut back on the added salt in the recipe.
Paprika: I love using paprika for its mild sweetness and color. Smoked paprika brings a deeper flavor, so feel free to switch if you enjoy that taste! No paprika? Cumin is a good alternative.
How Can You Ensure Your Chicken Breasts Stay Juicy?
To keep your chicken breasts juicy and flavorful, follow these important steps:
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. When it reaches 165°F (75°C), the chicken is perfectly cooked!
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and juicy.
- Don’t overcook! Keep an eye on the time and check the chicken a few minutes before you expect it to be done.
With these simple tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked chicken every time!
Easy Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: fresh herbs (such as thyme or rosemary) for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20-25 minutes to cook. Allow an additional 5 minutes for the chicken to rest before serving. In total, you’ll be enjoying your delicious oven-baked chicken in about 35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your chicken will cook evenly and come out perfectly juicy.
2. Prepare the Baking Sheet:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with a bit of oil. This will help prevent the chicken from sticking.
3. Season the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil over both sides of the chicken breasts to keep them moist and help the spices stick.
4. Mix Your Spices:
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to mix everything together.
5. Coat the Chicken:
Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts. Ensure they are well-coated to get that tasty flavor in every bite!
6. Bake:
Now, pop the baking sheet into the oven and bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (75°C).
7. Let It Rest:
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the oven. Let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting time lets the juicy flavors settle in!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Optionally, garnish your chicken with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a burst of freshness. Serve with your favorite sides—this baked chicken goes great with veggies, rice, or a crisp salad.
Enjoy your tasty and easy oven-baked chicken breast!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! However, make sure to thaw them completely before seasoning and cooking. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or use the cold water method by sealing them in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about an hour.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Before Baking?
Absolutely! Marinating the chicken can add even more flavor. You can marinate it in the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper mixture for 30 minutes to a few hours in the refrigerator. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if the breasts are thick.
How to Store Leftover Chicken?
Store any leftover chicken breasts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave if you’re in a hurry!
Can I Change the Seasonings?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with your spice blend. Italian seasoning, lemon pepper, or even a bit of chili powder can provide delicious variations. Just remember to keep the proportions similar to maintain the balance of flavors.
