Easy Oven Baked Chicken Breast Recipe

Category: Chicken Recipes

This easy oven-baked chicken breast is juicy and flavorful. With just a few simple ingredients like olive oil, garlic, and herbs, it’s a winner for any dinner!

I love making this dish on busy nights because it’s quick and healthy. Plus, the leftovers are great for salads or sandwiches. Who doesn’t love tasty meal prep? 🍗✨

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are best for this recipe as they cook quickly and stay moist. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs can be a wonderful alternative, just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps the spices stick. If olive oil isn’t your thing, feel free to use vegetable oil or melted butter for a different flavor.

Garlic Powder: Garlic powder brings a nice, subtle flavor. If you want a fresher taste, you could use crushed fresh garlic—just one or two cloves will do.

Dried Italian Herbs: These add a lovely medley of flavors. If you don’t have the specific herbs, oregano alone works well, or you can try a mix of whatever dried herbs you have on hand.

How Do I Ensure My Chicken Breasts Stay Juicy?

To keep your chicken breasts tender, there are a couple of key steps to follow. First, patting the chicken dry before seasoning helps the oil and spices adhere better and promotes browning. Second, letting the chicken rest after baking is essential—this allows the juices to redistribute, so your chicken stays moist!

  • Preheat your oven properly to reach the right cooking temperature.
  • Monitor the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; aim for 165°F (74°C).
  • Rest the chicken for a few minutes before slicing to lock in the moisture.

Easy Oven Baked Chicken Breast Recipe

Easy Oven Baked Chicken Breast Recipe

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 (such as oregano, basil, thyme)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Optional: lemon wedges for serving
  • Optional: fresh parsley for garnish

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 20-25 minutes for baking, making it a quick and easy meal that’s ready in under 35 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake the chicken, which helps achieve a deliciously tender result.

2. Prepare the Chicken:

Take the chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better and gives a nice color when baked.

3. Mix the Seasonings:

In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. This savory blend will add fantastic flavor to your chicken!

4. Season the Chicken:

Rub the olive oil mixture generously over both sides of each chicken breast. Make sure they are well coated for maximum flavor.

5. Bake the Chicken:

Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet or in an oven-safe dish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and has an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

6. Rest and Serve:

Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This will help keep the juices locked in. Slice and serve with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an extra touch of flavor.

Enjoy your tender, juicy oven-baked chicken breast!

Easy Oven Baked Chicken Breast Recipe

FAQ About Easy Oven Baked Chicken Breast

Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?

While it’s best to use fresh or fully thawed chicken breasts for even cooking, you can use frozen chicken if needed. Just remember to extend the baking time by about 10-15 minutes, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving.

What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?

If you don’t have olive oil, you can use vegetable oil, canola oil, or melted butter. Each will provide moisture and help the seasonings adhere, with a slight variation in flavor.

How Do I Store Leftover Chicken?

To store leftovers, place the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months; just ensure it’s well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn.

How Can I Change the Flavor Profile?

If you want to mix things up, feel free to use different spices or herbs! Adding chili powder for a kick, lemon zest for brightness, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese can give your chicken a new twist!

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