If juicy, flavorful chicken is your goal on busy weeknights or as a meal prep staple, then Oven Baked Chicken Breast deserves a spot in your regular rotation. This simple method transforms humble chicken breasts into golden, aromatic perfection with just a handful of pantry seasonings. Whether you’re looking to slice it into salads, pair it with hearty sides, or stash it for a week of lunches, this reliable favorite guarantees juicy results and happy diners every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Oven Baked Chicken Breast lies in its simplicity – every ingredient is easy to find, but has a role in creating that craveable taste, irresistible juiciness, and gorgeous golden hue. Here’s why each one matters:
- Chicken Breasts: The star of the show, opt for boneless, skinless breasts for quick, even cooking and lean protein.
- Olive Oil: Helps lock in moisture, adds depth of flavor, and gives the outside of your chicken a lovely sheen.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning, it draws out the natural flavors and keeps every bite perfectly seasoned.
- Black Pepper: Adds a gentle kick and balances the warmth of the other spices.
- Garlic Powder: Delivers a steady, fragrant richness that permeates each bite.
- Onion Powder: Lends a subtle savory sweetness and rounds out the aromatic profile.
- Paprika: Provides a whisper of smokiness and a lovely reddish color on the chicken’s surface.
- Dried Thyme (optional): This earthy herb pairs beautifully with poultry and infuses rustic notes if you want a little something extra.
- Fresh Parsley (optional): A bright, herby garnish that adds freshness and a pop of color at the end.
How to Make Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Crank up your oven to 425°F (220°C) – this higher heat is key for a quick bake and a juicy payoff. While the oven heats, pat your chicken breasts dry with paper towels to help the seasonings stick and promote better browning. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light oiling to save you from stuck-on bits later.
Step 2: Mix the Flavor Blend
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and dried thyme if using. This easy blend does all the heavy lifting in the flavor department and ensures each chicken breast gets an even, vibrant coating.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
Liberally brush or rub that seasoning blend over both sides of the chicken breasts, making sure every nook is covered. If you have a few extra minutes, let the seasoned chicken sit for 10 minutes to soak in the flavors – but even straight to the oven, you’ll get delicious results.
Step 4: Bake to Juicy Perfection
Arrange the chicken breasts on your prepared sheet so they aren’t touching. Pop them into the oven and let them bake for 18–20 minutes. The exact time will vary based on thickness, so start checking at 18 minutes – your goal is for the internal temperature to hit 165°F (74°C) at the thickest spot. Don’t be tempted to overbake, as that’s when chicken starts to dry out.
Step 5: Rest and Slice
When the chicken is done, let it sit for five minutes before slicing. This simple pause locks in those delicious juices, so every slice is as succulent as the next. Garnish with chopped parsley if you like, then serve Oven Baked Chicken Breast warm and get ready for plates to clear.
How to Serve Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley is classic, but feel free to mix it up! Try a dash of flaky sea salt, a squeeze of lemon, or delicate shavings of Parmesan for an extra layer of flavor and a pop of green or gold on your Oven Baked Chicken Breast.
Side Dishes
Pair your chicken with just about anything: fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a crisp green salad. Its mild, savory profile makes it a dream team player for bold flavors, gentle grains, or your favorite seasonal produce.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice and fan out the Oven Baked Chicken Breast over a grain bowl, tuck strips into wraps with crisp greens, or chop it for high-protein meal prep salads. Leftovers also shine tossed into pasta or layered onto sandwiches for lunches that won’t bore you by Wednesday.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let your chicken breasts cool completely before storing. Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The texture and juiciness hold up beautifully, making these baked breasts perfect for advance meal planning.
Freezing
For longer storage, slice or leave whole and wrap each chicken breast tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Pop into a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
To keep Oven Baked Chicken Breast tender, reheat gently. Use the microwave with a splash of water and a cover to trap moisture, or warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven, covered loosely with foil until heated through. Slicing before reheating speeds up the process and prevents drying.
FAQs
How do I keep chicken breast from drying out in the oven?
The keys are using a hot oven, coating with olive oil, and not overbaking. Always check for an internal temperature of 165°F, then rest before slicing to lock in juices.
Do I need to pound the chicken breasts?
Pounding them to an even thickness (about 3/4 inch) helps all pieces cook at the same rate for consistent texture and juiciness, but if your breasts are fairly even, you can skip this step.
Can I substitute other herbs or spices?
Absolutely! Oven Baked Chicken Breast is a blank canvas—swap thyme for oregano, add Italian seasoning, or try a sprinkle of cayenne for mild heat. Change it up based on what you have and what you love.
How do I know when my chicken is done?
Invest in a meat thermometer if you don’t have one. Once the thickest part hits 165°F and juices run clear, your Oven Baked Chicken Breast is juicy, safe, and ready to serve.
Can I use bone-in chicken breasts with this recipe?
Bone-in breasts work too but will take longer to cook (about 30–35 minutes depending on size). Keep an eye on the internal temperature and let them rest before serving for the best results.
Final Thoughts
If you love a dish that fits seamlessly into busy nights but still tastes like you fussed, Oven Baked Chicken Breast will become a go-to at your table. Give it a try, play with those seasonings, and see just how many ways this trusty method can upgrade your weeknight meals!
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Oven Baked Chicken Breast Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Tender and juicy oven-baked chicken breasts seasoned with a flavorful blend of spices, perfect for a quick and easy dinner.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or greased.
- Mix Seasonings: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and thyme.
- Season Chicken: Brush or rub the seasoning mixture over both sides of each chicken breast.
- Bake: Bake for 18–20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with parsley if desired and serve.
Notes
- Pounding the chicken breasts ensures even thickness for consistent cooking.
- Leftover chicken is versatile for salads, wraps, or meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
