This juicy oven-baked chicken breast recipe is a breeze to make. With a sprinkle of your favorite spices, you’ll have tender, flavorful chicken ready for dinner in no time!
If you’re like me, you love a dish that doesn’t require much fuss. Just season, pop it in the oven, and relax while it cooks. Perfect for busy days or easy meal prep!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star here. If you need a substitute, chicken thighs can work well. They’re often juicier, but adjust cooking time to avoid overcooking.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps with browning. If you don’t have it, vegetable oil or any other cooking oil will do. I sometimes use avocado oil for its high smoke point and mild flavor.
Garlic and Onion Powder: These give a lovely depth of flavor. Feel free to use fresh garlic or onions if you have them, just adjust the quantities to your taste. Fresh versions provide a stronger punch.
Smoked Paprika: This gives a nice smokiness. If you can’t find it, regular paprika or chili powder can be used, but the flavor will differ a bit.
Thyme or Italian Seasoning: Both herbs add great flavor. If you don’t have either, use dried oregano or basil, which will work nicely as well.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Breasts Stay Juicy?
Keeping chicken breasts juicy can be tricky! Here are some tips to help:
- Pat them dry before seasoning. This helps the seasoning stick and creates a nice crust.
- Cooking at a high temperature helps lock in moisture. Ensure your oven is properly preheated.
- Letting them rest after baking is crucial. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, so don’t skip this step!
- Using a meat thermometer is a game-changer. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for perfectly cooked chicken.
Juicy Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1 tablespoon lemon juice or 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard for extra moisture and flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 18-22 minutes to bake. After it’s done, let your chicken rest for about 5-10 minutes to keep it juicy. Overall, you can have a delicious dinner ready in around 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will give your chicken a lovely golden color and keep it juicy. To make cleanup easier, line a baking dish or a rimmed sheet pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take out your chicken breasts and pat them dry gently with paper towels. This step is important because it helps the seasoning stick better which enhances the flavor.
3. Mix the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. For an extra burst of flavor, you can also add lemon juice or Dijon mustard if you’re using them.
4. Season the Chicken:
Rub the seasoning mixture over all sides of each chicken breast, making sure to coat them evenly. This is where the flavor really comes in, so be generous!
5. Bake the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the prepared baking dish or sheet pan, giving them a little space between each piece. Pop them in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes. To make sure they’re done, check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Cooking times may vary slightly based on the size of your chicken breasts.
6. Rest and Serve:
Once they’re fully cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and tent it loosely with foil. Letting it rest for 5-10 minutes allows the juices to redistribute, which keeps it moist and tasty. Once rested, slice your chicken and serve it up with your favorite sides, or use it in salads, sandwiches, or wraps.
Enjoy your juicy and flavorful oven-baked chicken breasts!
FAQs for Juicy Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best method is to leave them in the fridge overnight. If you’re short on time, you can also thaw them in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for about 1-2 hours.
What Can I Use Instead of Olive Oil?
If you’re out of olive oil, you can substitute it with vegetable oil, canola oil, or even melted butter. Each will provide a slightly different flavor profile, but they all work well in this recipe!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep it nice and juicy, make sure it’s well-sealed. You can reheat it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
Can I Add Different Spices or Herbs?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with the spices and herbs. You can use Italian seasoning, cayenne pepper for some heat, or even add fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley. Just remember to adjust to your taste preference!
