This easy oven-baked chicken breast recipe is a winner for juicy, tender meat every time! With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
I love how this dish turns out because it’s super straightforward and always tasty. Serve it with veggies or over rice, and you’ll feel like a cooking pro without breaking a sweat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you want to change things up, chicken thighs can be substituted for their extra juiciness. A little longer cooking time may be needed for thighs.
Olive Oil: Olive oil keeps the chicken moist. You can swap it with melted butter or avocado oil for similar results. Both would add a nice flavor to the chicken.
Garlic Powder: This adds a lovely flavor. If you’re fresh out, you could use fresh minced garlic (about 2 cloves). Just be careful not to burn it in the oven!
Paprika: Paprika gives a nice color and flavor. You could substitute smoked paprika for a different taste or even cayenne for a bit of heat.
Lemon Juice: This adds brightness to the dish. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice works in a pinch. Lime juice is also a tasty alternative!
How Do I Bake Chicken Breasts for Optimal Juiciness?
Cooking chicken breasts can sometimes lead to dry results, but with a few simple tips, you can achieve juicy, tender meat every time.
- Start with a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) so the chicken cooks evenly.
- Pat the chicken dry before adding oil and seasoning. This helps the spices stick and promotes better browning.
- Using a meat thermometer is key. Aim for an internal temp of 165°F (74°C) for perfectly cooked chicken.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking. This step is crucial, as it allows the juices to redistribute inside the meat, helping it stay moist.
Easy Oven Baked Chicken Breast Recipe for Juicy Meat
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh lemon juice (from 1/2 lemon) or 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 18 to 22 minutes of cook time in the oven. Including a 5-minute resting period, you’ll be enjoying your juicy baked chicken breast in about 35 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for locking in juices while giving the chicken a lovely golden color. Next, line a baking dish or sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for an effortless cleanup later on.
2. Get Your Chicken Ready:
Take your chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is important because it helps the chicken bake better—removing excess moisture allows the seasonings to stick nicely. Now, brush both sides of the chicken breasts with the olive oil, making sure they’re well coated.
3. Mix and Season:
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, Italian seasoning (if you’re using it), salt, and pepper. Mix it up well! Then, sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts, pressing lightly so it sticks to the surface.
4. Baking Time:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in your prepared baking dish. Slide them into the preheated oven and bake for about 18 to 22 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You’ll know they’re done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer. If your chicken breasts are on the thicker side, they may need a bit more time in the oven.
5. Rest and Serve:
Once done, take the chicken out of the oven and allow it to rest for 5 minutes before you slice or serve. This resting period is key to keeping your chicken juicy! If you’d like, feel free to drizzle fresh lemon juice over the top and garnish with chopped parsley for an extra refreshing touch.
6. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve your tasty chicken warm alongside your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, a crisp salad, or fluffy rice. Enjoy your delicious, juicy oven-baked chicken breast!
FAQ for Easy Oven Baked Chicken Breast Recipe
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
It’s best to use thawed chicken breasts for this recipe. If you have frozen ones, make sure to thaw them overnight in the fridge or submerge them in cold water for a quicker defrosting method.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil, you can use melted butter or avocado oil, which also work great for keeping the chicken moist and adding flavor!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a tiny splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can season the chicken breasts a few hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld and improve the taste!
