Oven-baked chicken breast is the unsung hero of quick, healthy, and satisfying meals. Whether you’re looking to make a speedy weeknight dinner or meal prep for the week, this recipe offers juicy, tender chicken with a perfectly crisp exterior. Even if you’re new to cooking or have years of experience in the kitchen, oven-baked chicken breast is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Not only is it simple to make, but it’s also versatile enough to pair with nearly any side dish. Trust me, once you make this, it’ll quickly become a staple in your meal rotation!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh lemon juice (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How to Make Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This higher temperature ensures the chicken breast gets a nice sear on the outside, which helps seal in all those tasty juices. The result? Juicy chicken every time!
Prepare the Chicken
Pat your chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Drying the chicken before seasoning helps the spices stick better and creates that crispy exterior you’re after. Once the chicken is dry, drizzle the olive oil over the breasts and rub it in evenly on both sides. You’ll want to make sure the chicken is well-coated to get the perfect crispness when it bakes.
Season the Chicken
Now for the fun part: seasoning! In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. This blend of flavors will give your chicken a delicious, savory crust. Sprinkle the seasoning evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts. If you’re feeling fancy, you can squeeze a little fresh lemon juice over the top for a burst of citrusy brightness.
Bake the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. This keeps cleanup a breeze! Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake the chicken for 20-30 minutes. The exact time will depend on the size and thickness of your chicken breasts, so keep an eye on them. The key is making sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), which you can check with a meat thermometer. This guarantees your chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Let the Chicken Rest
Once your chicken reaches the perfect temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute, so your chicken will be moist and tender when you slice it. Don’t skip this!
Serve and Enjoy
Slice the chicken against the grain and serve it with your favorite sides. Roasted veggies, a light salad, or some fluffy rice would all pair beautifully with this oven-baked chicken breast. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Why You’ll Love Oven-Baked Chicken Breast
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 30 minutes to prepare and cook, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or when you need something quick and delicious.
- Healthy: Oven baking uses less oil compared to frying, which means you get a healthier option without sacrificing flavor. It’s a great way to keep your meals lighter, yet still satisfying.
- Versatile: The seasoning for this chicken is completely customizable! Want a little extra kick? Add some cayenne pepper. Want a more Italian flavor? Use Italian seasoning or basil. The possibilities are endless!
- Meal Prep Friendly: Bake several chicken breasts at once and use the leftovers in salads, wraps, or sandwiches throughout the week. This is a great way to ensure you’ve got a healthy meal ready to go whenever you need it.
Tips for Perfect Oven-Baked Chicken Breast
Even Cooking: If your chicken breasts are uneven in thickness, don’t worry! Simply use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound them to an even thickness. This ensures they cook at the same rate, so no piece is overdone or undercooked.
Don’t Overcook: The key to juicy chicken is making sure it doesn’t get overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can also cut into the thickest part of the chicken to check if the juices run clear.
Add Moisture: If you’re concerned about the chicken drying out, you can add a pat of butter on top of each breast before baking. Alternatively, cover the chicken with foil during baking to lock in moisture. Either way, you’ll end up with a juicy, flavorful dish.
How to Store Leftovers
Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, you can store the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. It makes for a quick and healthy lunch the next day!
Freezing Leftovers: If you want to keep the chicken longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. To freeze, let the chicken cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Place the wrapped chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container for easy storage. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating Leftovers: Reheating your chicken is easy! You can pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave it in 30-second intervals, covered, to keep it from drying out. If you’re reheating from frozen, be sure to thaw the chicken first for an even heat.
Serving Suggestions for Oven-Baked Chicken Breast
Oven-baked chicken breast is incredibly versatile and pairs well with many sides. Here are a few ideas to take your meal to the next level:
Pair with Roasted Vegetables: Serve the chicken with a medley of roasted vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, and Brussels sprouts. The slight char from the roasting process pairs wonderfully with the juicy chicken.
Serve with Grains: Chicken and grains are a match made in heaven. Serve your chicken with quinoa, rice, or couscous for a filling meal. You can even try a fresh grain salad with lemon and herbs to keep it light.
Add a Sauce: A delicious sauce can elevate the chicken even more. Try a creamy garlic sauce, tangy honey mustard, or a zesty salsa. If you’re feeling fancy, you can make a simple pan sauce by deglazing the baking sheet with some chicken broth and adding fresh herbs.
Slice or Shred for Other Dishes: The beauty of this chicken is its versatility. Slice it up for salads, sandwiches, or wraps. You can even shred it for tacos or add it to pasta dishes. This oven-baked chicken makes an excellent base for a variety of recipes.
Storage Tips for Oven Baked Chicken Breast
- Refrigerate Leftovers: Store your leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let the chicken cool to room temperature before refrigerating to prevent moisture buildup inside the container.
- Freeze Leftovers: If you’re meal prepping, oven-baked chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and then store it in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw it overnight in the fridge.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know when my chicken is cooked through?
The easiest way to ensure your chicken is cooked to perfection is by using a meat thermometer. When the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), your chicken is ready to go. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the thickest part of the chicken and make sure the juices run clear, not pink.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can definitely use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. Chicken thighs are slightly juicier and more forgiving when it comes to cooking times, so they’re a great option if you like a richer, more tender bite.
Can I marinate the chicken before baking?
Absolutely! Marinating the chicken before baking can add a burst of flavor. Try marinating the chicken in olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and fresh herbs for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight, for an extra boost of taste.
Can I bake multiple chicken breasts at once?
Yes! You can bake several chicken breasts at once. Just make sure they’re spaced evenly on the baking sheet for proper air circulation. If you’re cooking more than two, you might need to adjust the cooking time slightly, depending on their size. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure they’re cooked through.
Conclusion
This oven-baked chicken breast recipe is the perfect solution for a healthy, delicious, and quick meal. With a simple seasoning mix and easy-to-follow instructions, you can create juicy, flavorful chicken every time. Whether you’re preparing it for dinner tonight or making it in advance for meal prep, this recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy it with your favorite sides, and don’t forget to get creative with the flavors!
Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Ingredients
- 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
- optional fresh lemon juice
- optional fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and rub it in evenly.
- Combine garlic powder, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20 to 30 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with your choice of sides and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon juice, if desired.
