Oven Baked Chicken Breast Recipe

Looking for a simple and healthy way to prepare chicken breasts that are tender, juicy, and full of flavor? This oven-baked chicken breast recipe is the perfect solution. With just a few basic ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy a delicious, satisfying meal in under 30 minutes. The chicken is seasoned with aromatic spices, then baked to perfection for a quick, no-fuss dinner. Whether you serve it with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or fluffy rice, this recipe is versatile enough to pair with your favorite sides.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy: In just 25 minutes, you’ll have perfectly cooked chicken breasts, making this recipe ideal for busy weeknights.
2. Simple Ingredients: With only a few pantry staples required, this dish is budget-friendly and easy to make.
3. Juicy and Tender: Baking the chicken at the right temperature ensures it stays juicy and tender inside, with a slightly crisp exterior.
4. Customizable: You can tweak the seasonings to suit your taste—add extra garlic, or spice it up with chili powder or cayenne.
5. Healthy Option: Using olive oil and baking the chicken keeps this meal light, without sacrificing flavor.

this RECIPE

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts
• Olive oil
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Onion powder
• Dried oregano
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Variations

• Spicy Chicken: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to give the chicken a bit of heat.
• Lemon Herb Chicken: Use lemon zest and fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to create a fresh, zesty flavor.
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top of the chicken breasts during the last 5 minutes of baking for a cheesy, flavorful twist.
• BBQ Chicken: Brush the chicken with your favorite BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of baking for a sweet and smoky flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for quick and even cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin. This helps them cook evenly and ensures they remain tender.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil. Then, season them with garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Make sure the chicken is well coated with the seasoning on all sides.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

Place the seasoned chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the doneness of the chicken.

Step 5: Let the Chicken Rest

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken tender and juicy.

Step 6: Serve

Serve the chicken breasts as is, or garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color. Pair with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Brine for Extra Juiciness: For extra tender chicken, brine the breasts in a saltwater solution for 15-30 minutes before seasoning. This will help the chicken retain moisture while cooking.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure perfectly cooked chicken, check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. The chicken is done when it reaches 165°F (75°C).
• Rest the Chicken: Allowing the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after baking helps prevent the juices from running out when you slice it, keeping the chicken moist.
• Use Parchment Paper: Lining the baking sheet with parchment paper helps prevent the chicken from sticking and makes cleanup easier.

How to Serve

• With Roasted Vegetables: Serve the chicken with a side of roasted vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or asparagus for a balanced, healthy meal.
• With Rice or Quinoa: Pair the chicken with a serving of rice or quinoa for a filling and nutritious dish.
• In a Salad: Slice the chicken and serve it over a bed of mixed greens, avocado, and your favorite salad dressing for a light meal.
• With Mashed Potatoes: For a more indulgent option, pair the chicken with creamy mashed potatoes or mashed cauliflower.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked chicken breasts for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).

Reheating

To reheat leftover chicken, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. You can also microwave it for 1-2 minutes, depending on the portion size.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs in place of chicken breasts. They will take a little longer to cook, so check the internal temperature to ensure they reach 165°F (75°C).

2. Can I cook frozen chicken breasts?

It’s best to thaw chicken breasts before cooking them, as frozen chicken may not cook evenly. If cooking from frozen, increase the baking time to about 35-40 minutes.

3. How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

To prevent the chicken from drying out, make sure not to overcook it. Using a meat thermometer and letting it rest after baking will help keep the chicken moist.

4. Can I add cheese to the chicken breasts?

Yes! You can add shredded cheese on top of the chicken breasts during the last few minutes of baking for a cheesy crust.

5. Can I use a different oil instead of olive oil?

Yes, you can use other oils like avocado oil or vegetable oil, but olive oil provides a nice flavor and is a healthy option.

6. Can I cook multiple chicken breasts at once?

Yes, you can cook multiple chicken breasts at once, but make sure they are in a single layer and not overcrowded on the baking sheet.

7. Can I season the chicken in advance?

Yes, you can season the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. This allows the flavors to marinate and infuse the chicken.

8. Can I make this recipe on the grill?

Yes, you can grill the chicken breasts instead of baking them. Preheat the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

9. How can I tell if the chicken is fully cooked without a thermometer?

Cut into the thickest part of the chicken and check that the juices run clear and the meat is no longer pink inside. However, using a meat thermometer is the most accurate way to check.

10. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes, you can substitute fresh herbs for dried. Use 3 teaspoons of fresh herbs for every teaspoon of dried herbs.

Conclusion

This Oven Baked Chicken Breast Recipe is a quick, simple, and flavorful way to prepare chicken. With minimal ingredients and easy steps, it’s perfect for a healthy dinner that doesn’t require much effort. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight meal or meal prepping for the week, this recipe will leave you with tender, juicy chicken every time. Try it today and discover your new go-to chicken recipe!

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