This easy oven baked chicken breast recipe is a lifesaver for busy nights! Juicy chicken that’s seasoned just right makes for a delicious meal with minimal fuss.
You can serve it with veggies or rice for a complete dinner. I love how simple it is to throw everything in the oven and enjoy a flavorful dish without much effort!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe because they cook quickly and stay tender. If you’re looking for alternatives, chicken thighs can be a juicy substitute, but they might require a bit more cooking time.
Olive Oil: This is used for moisture and flavor. You can swap it with melted butter or avocado oil if you prefer or are cooking for allergies.
Garlic Powder: It provides a nice garlic flavor without the hassle of fresh garlic. If you have fresh garlic on hand, use about a clove, minced. Adjust according to your taste!
Seasonings: Italian seasoning adds a nice herb mix. If you don’t have it, combine dried basil, oregano, and thyme for a homemade version. Feel free to experiment with other spices you love!
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Breasts Are Juicy?
To keep your chicken breasts juicy, the key is in preparation and resting. Start by patting the chicken dry to help it brown better in the oven. Seasoning well before cooking also aids in flavor. And don’t skip the resting step; letting the chicken sit for 5 minutes after baking helps retain moisture, making each bite more delicious.
- Pat your chicken dry to help it brown nicely.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F (74°C) to prevent overcooking.
- Rest the chicken for a few minutes before slicing for juiciness.
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 seasoning (or mixed herbs)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and 20-25 minutes of cooking time. With a total of about 30-35 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal that’s quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden color.
2. Prepare the Chicken
Take your boneless, skinless chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This is an important step because drying the chicken helps it brown better in the oven.
3. Arrange the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet or in a baking dish. Make sure they have a little space between them for even cooking.
4. Drizzle with Olive Oil
Drizzle olive oil over both sides of the chicken breasts. This will add moisture and flavor to your meal.
5. Mix the Seasonings
In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, paprika, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir them together well.
6. Season the Chicken
Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts. Make sure each piece is well coated for maximum flavor!
7. Bake the Chicken
Place the chicken in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Rest the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute within the chicken, keeping it moist.
9. Serve and Enjoy
Garnish your chicken with chopped fresh parsley if you like, and serve it warm. Enjoy your tasty, juicy oven baked chicken breasts!
FAQ for Easy Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, but you’ll need to thaw them first! The safest way is to place the frozen chicken in the fridge overnight. If you’re short on time, you can seal them in a plastic bag and submerge in cold water until thawed. Avoid cooking frozen chicken directly, as it may not cook evenly.
How Can I Add Extra Flavor to the Chicken?
If you want to boost the flavor, consider marinating the chicken for a few hours in the fridge before cooking. You can use a simple mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fresh taste. Just be sure to pat it dry before seasoning and baking.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken breasts and seasoning the night before, storing them in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them in the oven! If you have baked chicken leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
What Should I Serve with This Chicken?
This chicken pairs well with many sides! Consider serving it with steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, rice, or mashed potatoes. For a lighter option, roasted vegetables or cauliflower rice are excellent choices!
