This easy oven-baked chicken breast is juicy and flavorful! Just season it up, pop it in the oven, and let the magic happen. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
I love serving this with rice or a fresh salad. It’s so simple, even my cat watches in awe. Who knew cooking could be this easy? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star of this dish. You can substitute them with chicken thighs if you prefer darker meat, which tends to be juicier.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds healthy fat and helps the chicken brown nicely. Canola or avocado oil are good alternatives if you want a milder flavor.
Garlic Powder: This gives a nice flavor kick. If you don’t have garlic powder, you can use minced fresh garlic, but reduce the amount slightly, as fresh garlic is stronger.
Paprika: Paprika adds color and a mild flavor. You could use smoked paprika for a different taste, or even cayenne pepper for some spice.
How Do You Get Juicy Chicken Breasts Every Time?
Getting perfectly juicy chicken breasts is all about the cooking method and time. Here’s how to avoid dry chicken:
- Start by drying the chicken with paper towels. This helps the olive oil and seasonings stick better!
- Using high heat (400°F) cooks the outside quickly while keeping the inside tender.
- Let the chicken rest after baking. This helps redistribute the juices, ensuring each bite is moist.
- Always check the internal temperature. Pull the chicken out once it hits 165°F to avoid overcooking.
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 salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs or dried thyme
How Much Time Will You Need?
This oven-baked chicken breast takes about 5 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to cook. So, you’ll be enjoying a delicious meal in under 30 minutes! Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the olive oil and seasonings stick better. Don’t skip this step!
3. Oil It Up:
Rub 2 tablespoons of olive oil evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts. This will keep the chicken moist and flavorful while it bakes.
4. Mix the Seasonings:
In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. If you’re using dried herbs, add them here too!
5. Season the Chicken:
Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts. Make sure they’re well coated for the best flavor!
6. Bake the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish or on a rimmed baking sheet. Bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes. You want to cook them until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let It Rest:
Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and cover loosely with foil. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This helps keep the juices sealed in!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your juicy oven-baked chicken breasts warm with your favorite sides like rice, veggies, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Happy cooking! 🍽️
Can I Use Skin-On Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Skin-on chicken breasts will add extra flavor and help keep the meat moist. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as they may take a few extra minutes to cook through.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinading is a great idea! You can marinate the chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and herbs in a zip-top bag in the refrigerator overnight. This will enhance the flavor even more!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through. You can add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist while reheating.
Can I Adjust the Seasoning?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with the seasoning based on your preferences. You can add spices like cumin, chili powder, or even fresh herbs like rosemary or cilantro for a different flavor profile!
