Juicy Oven Baked Chicken Breast Recipe for Dinner Magic

Crispy, golden oven baked chicken breast promises a delightful dinner that’ll make your taste buds dance with joy.

Juicy meat becomes the star of tonight’s meal when seasoned just right.

Salt and pepper create magic with simple ingredients.

Lean protein meets incredible flavor in this straightforward recipe.

Home cooks can master this dish without complicated techniques.

Minimal effort delivers maximum satisfaction, so roll up those sleeves and let’s get cooking.

Your dinner table will thank you for this mouthwatering masterpiece.

FAQs

• How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165F (75C). The meat should be white throughout with no pink areas and juices should run clear.

• Can I use other seasonings instead of the ones mentioned?

Absolutely! You can customize the spice blend with herbs like rosemary, oregano, or Italian seasoning. Experiment with different combinations to suit your taste preferences.

• What if my chicken breasts are different sizes?

Thicker chicken breasts might need a few extra minutes of cooking time. Always check the internal temperature to ensure they’re fully cooked. For even cooking, you can pound thicker breasts to a uniform thickness before seasoning.

Oven Baked Chicken Breast That Impresses

• Boost Flavor Fast: Discover a simple spice blend that transforms ordinary chicken into a mouthwatering meal with minimal effort and maximum taste.
• Minimal Prep, Maximum Satisfaction: Whip up a delicious dinner using just a few ingredients and basic kitchen tools, perfect for busy home cooks looking for a quick and nutritious option.
• Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Enjoy a protein-packed dish that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or impressing guests with its restaurant-quality appearance and taste.
• Healthy Eating Made Easy: Create a low-maintenance, nutritious meal that's packed with lean protein and can be paired with various sides for a balanced and satisfying plate.

Ingredients Needed For Oven Baked Chicken Breast

• Chicken Breasts: Fresh, boneless cuts that serve as the main protein for this simple and delicious recipe.

• Garlic Powder, Paprika, Thyme, Salt, Pepper: A blend of dried herbs and spices that adds robust flavor and aromatic depth to the chicken.

• Olive Oil: Helps create a golden, crispy exterior and prevents the chicken from drying out.
• Parchment Paper or Foil: Provides an easy non-stick surface for baking and simplifies cleanup.
• Lemon Wedges: Offers a bright, citrusy accent that complements the seasoned chicken.

Baking Instructions For Oven Baked Chicken Breast

Step 1: Prepare Cooking Environment

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).

Cover a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Season Chicken

Thoroughly dry chicken breasts using paper towels to remove excess moisture.

Gently massage each breast with olive oil to help seasonings stick.

• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Thyme
• Salt
• Black pepper

Step 3: Bake Chicken

Transfer seasoned chicken breasts to the prepared baking sheet.

Place in the preheated oven and cook for 18-20 minutes.

Check doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit (75 degrees Celsius) using a meat thermometer.

Step 4: Rest and Relax Chicken

Remove chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.

This allows juices to redistribute, ensuring tender and moist meat.

Step 5: Plate and Garnish

Slice chicken breasts and arrange on a serving plate.

Accompany with fresh lemon wedges for a zesty flavor boost.

Pair with your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables, rice, or salad.

Tricks For Perfect Oven Baked Chicken Breast

• Pat chicken breasts completely dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy, golden exterior and prevent steaming.
• Rub olive oil first, then generously coat with spices to help seasonings adhere and create a flavorful crust.
• Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature, guaranteeing perfectly cooked chicken without dryness.
• Allow chicken to rest for 5 minutes after baking, which helps redistribute juices and keeps meat tender and succulent.
• Squeeze fresh lemon over chicken just before serving to add brightness and enhance the overall taste profile.

Variation Ideas For Oven Baked Chicken Breast

• Herb-Crusted Chicken: Replace thyme with a blend of rosemary, basil, and oregano for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile.
• Spicy Cajun Chicken: Swap paprika with Cajun seasoning and add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bold, zesty kick.
• Low-Sodium Option: Eliminate salt and use fresh herbs like parsley and chives to enhance flavor without extra sodium.
• Dairy-Free Herb Coating: Use coconut oil instead of olive oil and add nutritional yeast for a rich, savory coating that works for dairy-sensitive diets.

Serving Suggestions For Oven Baked Chicken Breast

• Zesty Salad Companion: Slice the juicy chicken over a crisp mixed green salad with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and a light lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing meal.
• Hearty Grain Bowl Delight: Layer the sliced chicken breast on a warm quinoa or brown rice bowl, topped with roasted vegetables and a drizzle of herb-infused olive oil.
• Sandwich Transformation: Create a mouthwatering sandwich by placing the sliced chicken on whole grain bread with fresh spinach, avocado spread, and a touch of Dijon mustard.
• Protein-Packed Wrap Option: Stuff the tender chicken into a whole wheat wrap with hummus, roasted red peppers, and baby arugula for a quick and satisfying lunch.

Proper Storage For Oven Baked Chicken Breast

• Wrap cooled chicken tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. Keeps fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Place chicken in freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags. Remove excess air and label with date. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Place chicken on microwave-safe plate, cover with damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, checking temperature to prevent drying out.
• Warm chicken in preheated 350F oven for 10-15 minutes. Add splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture and prevent toughness.

Oven Baked Chicken Breast Recipe

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4.8 from 8 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Succulent oven baked chicken breast delivers classic comfort with minimal effort. Juicy, tender meat paired with simple seasonings ensures a quick and satisfying meal for home cooks who crave reliable protein perfection.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.36 kilograms or 48 ounces)

Spices and Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or oregano
• Salt (to taste)
• Black pepper (to taste)

Cooking Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Garnish:

• Lemon wedges (for serving)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven at 400F (200C) and cover a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
2. Use paper towels to thoroughly dry chicken breasts, ensuring maximum seasoning adherence.
3. Massage each chicken breast with olive oil, then generously sprinkle with garlic powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful coating.
4. Arrange seasoned chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly to promote uniform cooking.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, monitoring the internal temperature until it precisely reaches 165F (75C) for safe consumption.
6. Once cooked, immediately remove chicken from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 minutes, which helps redistribute juices and maintain tenderness.
7. Slice the chicken and garnish with fresh lemon wedges to enhance the flavor profile, then pair with complementary side dishes of your choice.

Notes

• Ensure chicken breasts are similar in size for even cooking, preventing dry or undercooked sections.
• Use a meat thermometer to accurately check internal temperature, guaranteeing juicy and safe-to-eat chicken.
• Create flavor variations by experimenting with different herb and spice combinations like rosemary, oregano, or cumin.
• Substitute olive oil with avocado or coconut oil for alternative dietary preferences or enhanced nutritional profiles.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 165 kcal
• Sugar: 0 g
• Sodium: 150 mg
• Fat: 7 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 1 g
• Fiber: 0.5 g
• Protein: 31 g
• Cholesterol: 85 mg