This easy oven baked chicken breast is juicy and full of flavor! With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a tasty meal ready without too much fuss.
I love how quick it is to prepare! Just season the chicken, pop it in the oven, and while it cooks, you can relax or whip up a side. Easy peasy! 🍗😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe. If you’re looking for a lower fat option, you might try chicken thighs, which stay juicy too. Just adjust cooking time as needed.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds flavor and helps keep the chicken moist. If you want a different taste, feel free to use avocado oil, or melted butter for richness.
Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika bring a wonderful flavor. If you don’t have garlic powder, fresh minced garlic works well, just use a little less. For paprika, smoked paprika adds a great twist!
Herbs: Dried thyme and Italian seasoning are optional but really enhance the flavor. If you prefer fresh herbs, use them instead! Just chop them finely and use about three times the amount.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Is Juicy?
To keep your chicken juicy, start by patting the breasts dry. This step is crucial as moisture on the surface can steam the chicken, leading to dryness. Also, using a meat thermometer is key. It will help you know exactly when the chicken is done. Pull it out of the oven as soon as it reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Preheat your oven to ensure even cooking.
- Drizzing olive oil helps create a barrier, locking in moisture.
- Let the chicken rest after baking. This resting period allows the juices to settle, making each bite juicy.
Easy Oven Baked Chicken Breast Recipe for Juicy Results
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning (optional)
- Fresh lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 20-25 minutes for baking. In total, you’re looking at around 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and comes out nice and juicy.
2. Prepare the Chicken Breasts:
Next, take a paper towel and gently pat the chicken breasts dry. This step is important because it helps the chicken to get a nice sear and remain juicy inside.
3. Arrange Chicken on Baking Sheet:
Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet. You can line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup, or lightly grease the baking dish.
4. Add Olive Oil:
Drizzle olive oil evenly over each chicken breast. Then, use your hands to rub the oil all over the chicken until completely coated. This helps keep the chicken moist while cooking.
5. Mix Your Seasonings:
In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and thyme (if you’re using it). Stir the mixture until blended.
6. Season the Chicken:
Take the seasoning mix and sprinkle it evenly over both sides of each chicken breast. Press down lightly so the seasoning sticks well.
7. Bake the Chicken:
Put the chicken in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature—it should reach 165°F (75°C) when it’s fully cooked.
8. Let It Rest:
Once cooked, pull the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This will help the juices redistribute so your chicken stays juicy!
9. Serve & Enjoy:
Finally, slice the chicken if you’d like and serve with some fresh lemon wedges on the side. The lemon adds a lovely zesty flavor!
Enjoy your delicious and juicy oven-baked chicken breasts! 🍗😊
FAQ: Easy Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it’s essential to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to do this is to place them in the refrigerator overnight or submerge them in a sealed plastic bag in cold water for a faster thaw. Once thawed, follow the recipe as directed.
Can I Substitute Olive Oil with Another Oil?
Absolutely! While olive oil is great for flavor and moisture, you can substitute it with avocado oil, canola oil, or melted butter. Each will lend a slightly different flavor, so choose according to your preference.
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken?
Store any leftover chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist if needed.
Can I Add Additional Seasonings or Marinades?
Yes! Feel free to get creative with the seasonings. You can add herbs like rosemary or cilantro, or even marinate the chicken beforehand for extra flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly if marinating adds moisture.
