Introduction
Oven-baked chicken breast is a simple yet delicious meal that is perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines basic ingredients to create juicy, flavorful chicken that can be served with various sides. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this oven-baked chicken breast recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh lemon juice (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
20 to 30 minutes
Total Time
30 to 40 minutes
Yield
2 servings
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Drizzle with olive oil and rub it in on all sides to ensure even coating.
3. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts. Optionally, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top for added flavor.
4. Bake the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the size and thickness of your chicken breasts. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) as measured with a meat thermometer.
5. Rest the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the chicken remains moist and tender.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Slice the chicken against the grain and serve with your favorite sides such as roasted vegetables, salad, or rice. Garnish with fresh parsley for added color and flavor.
This recipe is quick, healthy, and versatile, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep. Enjoy your meal!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Drizzle with olive oil and rub it in on all sides to ensure even coating.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts. Optionally, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top for added flavor.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the size and thickness of your chicken breasts. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) as measured with a meat thermometer.
Step 5: Rest the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the chicken remains moist and tender.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Slice the chicken against the grain and serve with your favorite sides such as roasted vegetables, salad, or rice. Garnish with fresh parsley for added color and flavor.
Notes
Tip for Juiciness
Letting the chicken rest after baking is crucial for keeping it juicy and tender.
Storage Instructions
Leftover cooked chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Meal Prep Advice
This recipe is great for meal prep; you can double the recipe and store extra portions for quick lunches throughout the week.
Flavor Variations
Feel free to experiment with different seasonings or marinades to customize the flavor to your liking.
Cook techniques
Oven Preheating
Preheating the oven ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and achieves the desired texture and doneness.
Patting Dry
Patting the chicken breasts dry removes excess moisture, allowing the seasoning to adhere better and promoting browning during cooking.
Even Coating with Oil
Drizzling olive oil and rubbing it in helps to keep the chicken moist and enhances the flavor while promoting even cooking.
Seasoning
Creating a seasoning mixture and evenly applying it ensures each bite of chicken is flavorful and well-seasoned.
Baking
Baking the chicken at the right temperature allows it to cook through without drying out, achieving a juicy and tender result.
Resting
Allowing the chicken to rest after baking helps redistribute the juices throughout the meat, resulting in a more succulent texture.
Slicing Against the Grain
Slicing against the grain helps to break up the muscle fibers, making the chicken easier to chew and enhancing the overall eating experience.
FAQ
Can I use bone-in chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time since bone-in chicken tends to take longer to cook through.
What is the best way to tell if the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Can I add more spices to the seasoning mix?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the seasoning to your taste by adding herbs or spices you enjoy.
How long can I store leftover cooked chicken?
Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can I freeze baked chicken breasts?
Yes, you can freeze cooked chicken breasts for up to 3 months. Just be sure to store them in an airtight container or freezer bag.
What are some good side dishes to serve with oven-baked chicken breast?
Roasted vegetables, salads, quinoa, rice, or mashed potatoes are great options to complement your chicken.
Conclusion
The Oven Baked Chicken Breast is a simple and nutritious dish that can easily become a staple in your weeknight meals. With minimal preparation and cooking time, it delivers juicy, flavorful chicken that pairs well with various sides. This recipe not only ensures delicious results but also provides a great foundation for meal prepping, leading to healthier eating habits throughout the week. Enjoy the versatility and ease that this dish brings to your kitchen!
More recipes suggestions and combination
Herb-Crusted Chicken
Add a mix of fresh herbs like rosemary, basil, and oregano to the seasoning for a fragrant twist.
Honey Mustard Baked Chicken
Mix honey and Dijon mustard with olive oil for a sweet and tangy glaze before baking.
Italian Style Chicken
Use Italian seasoning, sun-dried tomatoes, and mozzarella cheese for a flavorful Mediterranean-inspired dish.
Spicy Cajun Chicken
Add Cajun seasoning for a spicy kick and serve with a refreshing coleslaw.
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken
Top the chicken with a mixture of melted butter, minced garlic, and lemon zest for a rich, citrusy flavor.
BBQ Baked Chicken
Brush the chicken with your favorite BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of baking for a smoky flavor.
Chicken and Veggie Sheet Pan Dinner
Roast the chicken alongside seasonal veggies like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers for a complete meal in one pan.
