Easy Oven Baked Chicken Breast Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken Breasts: Always opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easy handling and quick cooking. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs can be a tasty substitute; just adjust the cooking time as they may take a bit longer to cook.

Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps the seasoning stick. If you’re out of olive oil, you can use vegetable oil or even melted butter for a richer flavor.

Garlic Powder: A must for flavor! If you have fresh garlic, you can mince 1-2 cloves as a substitute. Just sauté it briefly before adding to help mellow out its sharpness.

Spices: I love using smoked paprika for a deeper flavor, but regular paprika works too. If you’re missing Italian herbs, use whatever you have on hand—herbs de Provence or just basil can be great options.

How Do You Ensure the Chicken Breast Stays Juicy?

Keeping chicken breasts juicy while baking can be tricky, but it’s all about the preparation and resting time. Here are some methods to help:

• Pat the chicken dry before seasoning. This helps the oil and spices stick better.
• After baking, always let the chicken rest for at least 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it tender.
• Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Aim for 165°F (74°C) 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 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: lemon wedges for serving

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 5-10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need around 30-35 minutes from start to serving, making it a perfect meal for busy weeknights!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and gets that nice golden color.

2. Prepare the Chicken:

Grab your two boneless, skinless chicken breasts and pat them dry using paper towels. This is important because it helps the oil and seasonings stick better and promotes even cooking.

3. Season the Chicken:

Brush both sides of each chicken breast with olive oil. Next, in a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, paprika, dried herbs, salt, and black pepper. Once mixed, sprinkle this seasoning blend evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts, ensuring they are coated well.

4. Bake in the Oven:

Place the seasoned chicken breasts on a baking sheet or in a baking dish. Slide them into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and for the juices to run clear when cut.

5. Let it Rest:

Once they’re done baking, carefully remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps to keep the chicken juicy!

6. Serve and Enjoy:

Slice the chicken and serve with optional lemon wedges on the side for added brightness. Enjoy your delicious, easy oven-baked chicken breast!

FAQ

Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it’s best to thaw them completely beforehand. Thaw in the fridge overnight or place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for a quicker option. Pat dry before seasoning!

Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?

Absolutely! For extra flavor, you can marinate the chicken in the olive oil and spices for a few hours or overnight. Just make sure to adjust the salt as needed to avoid over-salting during cooking!

How to Store Leftover Chicken?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish and heat gently, or warm it up in a skillet on the stove to keep it juicy.

What Can I Serve with This Chicken?

This baked chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider serving it with steamed veggies, a salad, rice, or mashed potatoes to complete your meal. You can even slice it up and toss it into a salad for a nutritious lunch!