This juicy oven-baked chicken breast is a simple and tasty dish that’s perfect for any meal. Season it just the way you like and let the oven do the work for you!
Honestly, there’s nothing better than perfectly baked chicken that stays moist inside. I often whip this up for quick dinners or meal prep for the week—easy peasy! 🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs can work too! Just adjust the cooking time since thighs may need a bit longer to cook through.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds flavor and moisture. You can substitute it with avocado oil or melted butter. However, I like how olive oil gives a lovely crisp when baking!
Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika are key to flavor. If you don’t have these, try using taco seasoning or your favorite spice blend. It’s a fun twist!
Herbs: Dried Italian herbs are versatile. You can use fresh herbs like basil or rosemary, but add them towards the end of cooking to keep their flavor intact.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Breast Stays Juicy?
To keep your chicken breast juicy, the key lies in preparation and cooking. Start by patting the chicken dry; this helps the seasoning stick well. Make sure to rub the olive oil evenly, as it helps create a nice crust.
- Bake at a high temperature (425°F) for a short time (18-22 mins) to lock in moisture.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—165°F is the magic number! Overcooking dries the meat out.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes after baking. This resting time allows juices to settle, keeping every bite moist.
With these tips, you’ll make juicy chicken breasts every time! Enjoy your meal! 🍗
Juicy Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This juicy chicken breast recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 18-22 minutes to bake, making it a quick meal option. After baking, let it rest for 5 minutes. In total, you’ll be looking at around 35 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help seal in the juices while giving the chicken a lovely golden crust. Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup!
2. Prepare the Chicken
Take your chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is important as it removes excess moisture and helps the seasoning stick better.
3. Mix the Seasonings
In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. This will be the flavor bomb for your chicken!
4. Season the Chicken
Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken breasts and rub it in until they are well coated. Then, sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly on both sides of each chicken breast, ensuring each bite will be packed with flavor.
5. Bake the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they’re spaced apart a little; this allows hot air to circulate and cook them evenly. Pop the baking sheet in the oven and let them bake for about 18-22 minutes.
6. Check for Doneness
To ensure your chicken is juicy and perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C).
7. Let It Rest
Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This is a crucial step! Resting helps the chicken retain its juices, making it more tender and flavorful.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
After resting, slice your chicken breast and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if you like. Serve it alongside your favorite veggies, salads, or grains for a delicious meal!
This method yields tender, juicy chicken breasts that are super versatile and perfect for any meal. Enjoy your delicious creation!
FAQ for Juicy Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
It’s best to use thawed chicken breasts for optimal results. If you’re using frozen chicken, make sure to thaw them completely in the fridge overnight or quickly by submerging them in a sealed plastic bag in cold water. Pat them dry before seasoning to ensure proper coating.
How Can I Make This Recipe Low-Sodium?
You can reduce the salt amount in the seasoning mix or substitute with low-sodium garlic and onion powders. Fresh herbs can add flavor without the sodium, so feel free to experiment with those as well!
What Should I Serve with Juicy Oven Baked Chicken Breast?
This chicken pairs well with a variety of sides! Consider serving it with steamed vegetables, a refreshing salad, or over rice or quinoa. You can also slice it into a sandwich or salad for a quick lunch!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat to maintain its juiciness. Adding a splash of chicken broth can help keep it moist during reheating!
