This juicy oven-baked chicken breast is packed with flavor and super easy to make. Just season, bake, and enjoy tender, tasty chicken that’s perfect for any meal!
You can serve it with veggies, rice, or on a salad for a healthy dinner. I love how quickly it comes together—perfect for busy nights when I don’t want to fuss in the kitchen!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star here, ensuring the meat stays moist and tender. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work beautifully as well and may be even juicier.
Olive Oil: This helps keep the chicken moist and adds flavor. If you’re looking for a different taste, avocado oil or melted butter can be great alternatives.
Garlic and Onion Powder: These add a rich flavor. If you have fresh garlic and onions, you can use them instead—just be careful with the amounts, as fresh ingredients are stronger.
Smoked Paprika: This gives a lovely smoky flavor to the chicken. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or chili powder can be substituted. Just remember, it won’t have the same smoky essence.
Dried Herbs: Italian herbs add a nice depth to the flavor. Feel free to mix and match with whatever dried herbs you love—rosemary or thyme are wonderful alternatives.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Breast Stays Juicy?
Keeping chicken breasts juicy is all about proper cooking and resting techniques. Here are some tips:
- Pat Dry: Make sure to pat your chicken dry before seasoning. This helps create a nice crust while baking.
- High Oven Temp: Baking at 425°F (220°C) ensures a quick cook time, which means less drying out.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Checking for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) ensures the chicken is cooked through but not overdone.
- Let It Rest: Cover the chicken with foil after baking and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps redistribute the juices for more flavor.
Following these steps will give you a perfectly juicy chicken breast every time!
Juicy Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1 tablespoon lemon juice or Dijon mustard for extra flavor
- Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus 18-22 minutes for baking. After that, let your chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. In total, you’ll need around 35 minutes to enjoy a delicious, juicy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help cook the chicken quickly while keeping it moist.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and gently pat them dry using paper towels. This helps remove any excess moisture, allowing the seasoning to stick better and create a nice baked crust.
3. Mix Your Seasonings:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper. If you want an extra kick, add the lemon juice or Dijon mustard. Mix everything well until it’s nicely blended.
4. Season the Chicken:
Take the seasoning mixture and rub it all over the chicken breasts. Make sure each piece is evenly coated for maximum flavor!
5. Bake the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on a baking sheet or in a baking dish, making sure they’re in a single layer without overlapping. Bake them uncovered in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes.
6. Check for Doneness:
To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If it’s not there yet, give it a few more minutes!
7. Let it Rest:
Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and cover it loosely with foil. Allow it to rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making the chicken even juicier.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, garnish your chicken with fresh parsley or thyme, if you like. Slice and serve hot, paired with your favorite sides. Enjoy your delicious, juicy chicken!
This method ensures a flavorful, juicy chicken breast with a nice baked crust without drying out. Enjoy!
FAQs for Juicy Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken Breasts Instead?
Yes, you can! However, bone-in chicken breasts will take longer to cook. Aim for around 30-35 minutes, and be sure to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the chicken in your seasoning mixture overnight can enhance the flavor even more. Just make sure to keep it covered in the refrigerator. Remove from the fridge about 30 minutes before baking to help it cook evenly.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the microwave or warm it in the oven at a low temperature to prevent drying out.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Baking Sheet?
Definitely! Adding vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or broccoli can make for a complete meal. Just chop them into similar sizes and toss them with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper before placing them on the baking sheet with the chicken.
