This easy oven-baked chicken breast is juicy and flavorful. With just a sprinkle of seasoning, it becomes a tasty main dish that’s perfect for any meal!
I love how it cooks up so simply! Just pop it in the oven and relax while it does all the work. Pair it with veggies, and you’ve got a healthy feast! 🍗
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star here for their lean profile. If you have chicken thighs, they work well too. They’re juicier, so keep an eye on the cooking time.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps the spices stick. You can swap it for avocado oil or melted butter if you prefer a different flavor.
Garlic Powder: This gives a lovely garlic flavor. If you have fresh garlic, you can mince 1-2 cloves instead, but remember to adjust to taste.
Paprika: I love the color and mild flavor it adds. For a smoky touch, try smoked paprika. If you don’t have paprika, cayenne or chili powder can be used sparingly for heat!
Thyme or Italian Seasoning: Both add nice herbal notes. Dried basil, oregano, or even a dash of rosemary can be great substitutes based on what you have.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Breasts Are Juicy?
Getting juicy chicken is all about moisture and proper cooking. Here are steps to help you achieve that:
- Drying the chicken before seasoning ensures the oil and spices adhere better, staying on during cooking.
- Cook at 400°F (200°C). This temperature helps form a nice crust while keeping the inside moist.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Remove the chicken from the oven when it hits 165°F (74°C).
- Letting it rest for 5 minutes after cooking is key! This helps the juices redistribute so every bite is tender.
How to Make Easy Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake, so you’ll be enjoying your meal in about 35 minutes total. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). It’s essential to have the oven hot before you bake your chicken to ensure it cooks evenly.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as it helps the spices stick better and ensures that you get a nice sear. Don’t skip this part!
3. Add Olive Oil:
Drizzle the olive oil over both sides of the chicken breasts. Use your hands to rub the oil into the meat, making sure it’s well coated. This will help keep the chicken moist during baking.
4. Season the Chicken:
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix them well. Now, sprinkle this seasoning blend evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts, pressing gently to make sure it sticks.
5. Bake the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken into a baking dish or on a lined baking sheet. Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it as the cooking time can vary depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts. For accuracy, use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let It Rest:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This step helps the juices redistribute, making your chicken extra juicy!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the chicken breast and serve it hot with your favorite sides, whether that’s a fresh salad, steamed veggies, or some fluffy rice. Enjoy your deliciously easy oven-baked chicken!
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 you have frozen chicken, thaw it safely in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost function on your microwave before proceeding with the recipe.
Can I Add Other Seasonings?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with herbs and spices. Some tasty options include cumin, chili powder, lemon zest, or a dash of cayenne for heat. Just adjust the amounts to suit your taste preferences!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or in the microwave for a quicker option—just make sure to cover it to retain moisture!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can marinate the chicken with the olive oil and seasonings up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken for an even tastier result!
