If you’re searching for the perfect Oven Baked Chicken Breast, you’re in for a serious treat. This recipe transforms simple pantry staples and modest chicken breasts into juicy, flavorful magic—golden at the edges, tender in the middle, and delicious every single bite. Oven Baked Chicken Breast isn’t just a weeknight hero for its speed and ease, but also because it’s endlessly versatile, healthy, and surprisingly crave-worthy. It’s a must-have for meal prep, quick dinners, or lunches that actually make you excited to dig in!
Ingredients You’ll Need
What’s wonderful about this Oven Baked Chicken Breast is how a handful of everyday ingredients combine to create seriously impressive results. Each addition brings essential flavor, color, and tenderness—so don’t skip a single one!
- Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star for their lean, juicy bite and quick cooking time.
- Olive oil: Helps the seasoning stick and delivers beautiful golden edges while keeping the meat moist.
- Salt: Essential for unlocking flavor and ensuring your chicken tastes savory rather than bland.
- Black pepper: Adds a gentle, spicy warmth that cuts through the richness of the meat.
- Garlic powder: Brings deep, aromatic undertones without overwhelming the palate.
- Onion powder: Subtle sweetness rounds out the spice blend and brings depth to the flavor profile.
- Paprika: Adds color and just a hint of earthy smokiness.
- Dried thyme or Italian seasoning: Offers herby notes that make the dish taste complete and so much more interesting.
- Fresh lemon wedges and chopped parsley: Optional garnishes that brighten each serving and look gorgeous on your plate.
How to Make Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
First things first—get your oven heating up to a toasty 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is key for sealing in moisture and getting that lightly browned finish. While it’s warming, lightly grease a baking dish or line a sheet pan with parchment paper, which makes cleanup a breeze and prevents any sticking.
Step 2: Pound and Dry the Chicken
Lay the chicken breasts between sheets of plastic wrap or parchment, and gently pound them with a meat mallet or rolling pin until they’re an even thickness. This quick step is the secret to moist, evenly-cooked Oven Baked Chicken Breast every time. Pat them dry with paper towels—removing excess moisture helps the seasonings adhere and encourages beautiful browning.
Step 3: Mix Your Seasoning Blend
Grab a small bowl and combine your salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and dried thyme or Italian seasoning. Mixing them separately ensures every chicken breast is evenly coated with flavor. This blend is simple, fragrant, and makes the Oven Baked Chicken Breast taste like it came from your favorite bistro.
Step 4: Season the Chicken
Brush or rub each chicken breast with olive oil, coating it all over. Then, sprinkle and rub the seasoning blend generously over both sides of each piece. The oil helps the herbs and spices cling, and you won’t regret getting a little messy—it ensures maximum flavor in every bite.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Arrange the chicken breasts in your prepared baking dish or pan, giving them a smidge of space so the air can circulate. Bake for 18–22 minutes, until they’re just cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Don’t overcook—using a meat thermometer takes out the guesswork and keeps things supremely juicy.
Step 6: Rest, Slice, and Garnish
When the Oven Baked Chicken Breast is piping hot and smells irresistible, take it out of the oven and let it rest for at least 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps every slice succulent. Finish with a shower of chopped parsley and a few squeezes of fresh lemon juice, if you like—it’s the fastest way to level up the whole dish.
How to Serve Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Garnishes
Garnishing is your chance to add whimsy and a pop of color. Try a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley, a bright twist of lemon, or even a delicate drizzle of olive oil. These little touches make your Oven Baked Chicken Breast look restaurant-worthy and taste even fresher and more vibrant.
Side Dishes
This chicken breast is a blank canvas, just waiting for your favorite sides. Pair it with roasted vegetables, fluffy rice, garlicky mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad for a balanced meal. You can even tuck slices into a wrap with greens and hummus, or serve over pasta with a spoonful of pesto—there are no wrong answers here!
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice your Oven Baked Chicken Breast thinly and layer it on a bed of greens for a protein-packed salad. Drape slices over creamy risotto, serve atop a sheet tray of roasted sweet potatoes, or even use pieces to top your next homemade pizza. Leftovers also shine in sandwiches or meal prep bowls throughout the week.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Got cooked chicken you can’t finish in one go? Let it cool completely, then store the Oven Baked Chicken Breast in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Keeping the breasts whole until you need them helps retain their moisture, so slice just before serving if you can.
Freezing
The Oven Baked Chicken Breast freezes beautifully. Simply wrap cooled chicken in plastic wrap, then seal in a freezer bag or airtight container. Label with the date and it’ll keep for up to three months. For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy again, reheat sliced or whole breasts gently in the microwave or in a covered skillet with a splash of chicken broth. Low, slow heat keeps the Oven Baked Chicken Breast from drying out—no one likes rubbery leftovers!
FAQs
How can I make sure my chicken doesn’t dry out?
Pounding the chicken breasts to even thickness and not overcooking are key! Using a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F (74°C) gives you perfectly juicy Oven Baked Chicken Breast every time.
Can I use different seasonings or spices?
Absolutely—this recipe is a template. Swap in smoked paprika, chili powder, dried oregano, or your favorite spice blends. Just keep the overall amounts about the same for balanced flavor.
Do I need to marinate the chicken first?
While a quick marinade ups the taste, you don’t need it! The seasoning blend and olive oil deliver massive flavor and moisture. If you want, try a 30-minute lemon-herb marinade for extra zing.
Can I use this recipe for chicken thighs?
Yes, it works with boneless, skinless thighs too! The thighs might need a few extra minutes in the oven—just check that internal temperature for safety and juiciness.
Is Oven Baked Chicken Breast good for meal prep?
It’s fantastic for meal prep! Make a big batch, and you’ll have healthy, flavorful protein ready for salads, wraps, lunches, or quick dinners all week. It stores and reheats like a dream.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something wonderful about a tender, flavorful Oven Baked Chicken Breast fresh from your own oven. Whether you’re learning to cook, feeding a family, or meal prepping for the week, it’s a recipe you’ll reach for again and again. Give it a try and let your kitchen fill with that cozy, dinner-ready aroma—you won’t be disappointed!
Print
Oven Baked Chicken Breast Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Learn how to make perfectly juicy and flavorful Oven Baked Chicken Breast with this easy recipe. Seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices, this dish is a simple and delicious choice for a wholesome meal.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Seasoning:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
Garnish:
- Fresh lemon wedges and chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
- Tenderize chicken: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
- Season chicken: In a bowl, mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and thyme. Rub chicken with olive oil, then season with spices. Place in baking dish.
- Bake: Bake for 18–22 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let rest for 5 minutes.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley, lemon juice, if desired.
Notes
- Pounding the chicken helps it cook evenly and stay juicy.
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
- Great for meal prep or slicing over salads and pastas.
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