This oven-baked chicken breast is super easy to make and always juicy! With just a few simple spices, you can have tasty chicken ready in no time.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a simple dinner? I like to toss some veggies on the side while the chicken cooks for a complete meal. It’s a win-win! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for even cooking and juiciness. If you’re looking for an alternative, chicken thighs can also be used for a richer flavor.
Olive Oil: This oil helps keep the chicken moist and enhances flavor. If you’re out of olive oil, canola or avocado oil are great substitutes.
Seasonings: The blend of garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika gives a warm taste. You could also use Italian seasoning or Cajun spices for a different kick!
How Do You Ensure the Chicken is Juicy?
One of the biggest challenges is keeping chicken breasts juicy during baking. Here are some tips:
- Pat Dry: Always pat the chicken dry. This allows the oil and spices to stick better and helps achieve that nice golden color.
- Right Temperature: Bake at 425°F. This high heat cooks the chicken quickly without drying it out.
- Resting Time: Don’t skip the resting step! Letting the chicken sit covered helps the juices redistribute, making every bite moist.
Easy Oven Baked Chicken Breast for Juicy Results
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs or dried thyme/rosemary
- Cooking spray or extra olive oil for greasing the baking dish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and approximately 20 minutes to bake. Including the resting time, you’ll need around 35 minutes from start to finish for a delicious, juicy chicken dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help achieve that golden, juicy chicken you want! Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is important because it helps the seasoning stick better and ensures even cooking.
3. Add Olive Oil:
Drizzle the olive oil over both sides of the chicken breasts. Use your hands or a brush to rub it in, covering the chicken well. This will keep them moist while cooking.
4. Mix the Seasonings:
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and any optional herbs you like. This blend of spices will enhance the flavor of your chicken!
5. Season the Chicken:
Evenly sprinkle the seasoning mixture over both sides of the chicken breasts. Press down gently to make sure the spices adhere well.
6. Bake the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in your prepared baking dish, making sure they are spaced out. Bake in the preheated oven for about 18-22 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken.
7. Rest the Chicken:
Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to settle back into the meat, keeping it juicy!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
After resting, slice the chicken and serve it warm. You can garnish it with fresh herbs or lemon wedges for an extra touch of flavor. Enjoy your delicious, juicy oven-baked chicken breast!
FAQ for Easy Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
It’s best to use thawed chicken breasts for even cooking. If you’re using frozen chicken, make sure to thaw them in the fridge overnight or in cold water before starting this recipe. You can bake frozen chicken breasts, but they may require an additional 5-10 minutes of cooking time.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil on hand, you can substitute with canola oil, avocado oil, or melted coconut oil. Each will impart slightly different flavors but will still keep the chicken moist and delicious.
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken?
Leftover baked chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place it in the microwave or oven at a low temperature until heated through. Adding a splash of chicken broth or water while reheating can help preserve moisture.
Is It Possible to Add More Flavor?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different spices and marinades. Consider adding a splash of lemon juice or balsamic vinegar to the marinade, or try other herbs like cumin, chili powder, or fresh herbs for varied flavors.
