Oven Baked Chicken Breast

Juicy, flavorful chicken breasts baked to perfection with a savory blend of spices. This easy Oven Baked Chicken Breast is ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or adding high-quality protein to your favorite salads and sandwiches.

Save to Pinterest

Whether you follow a strict gluten-free diet or just need a reliable main dish, this recipe delivers tender results by using a simple seasoning rub and an optimal baking temperature.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6–8 oz each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Optional Garnish: Lemon slices, chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
• Optional Simple Marinade: ¼ cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 clove garlic (minced), ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Grill meats and vegetables indoors with beautiful sear marks and easy cleanup using minimal oil.

Check price on Amazon

Instructions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking dish.

Step 2

Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Place between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper and gently pound to even thickness (~¾ inch) using a meat mallet or rolling pin.

Step 3

In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper until combined.

Step 4

Rub seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of each chicken breast. If using the optional marinade, marinate for 30 minutes to 2 hours in the refrigerator and pat dry before seasoning.

Step 5

Arrange chicken breasts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not crowded.

Step 6

Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165°F (74°C).

Step 7

Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Step 8

Garnish with lemon slices and chopped parsley or cilantro, if desired. Serve warm.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Pounding the chicken to an even thickness of about 3/4 inch ensures that the meat cooks evenly throughout. Always use an instant-read thermometer to avoid overcooking and keep the chicken juicy.

Varianten und Anpassungen

Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. You can also substitute chicken thighs for juicier meat; just increase the baking time by 5–7 minutes.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this chicken alongside roasted vegetables, fresh green salads, or healthy grains like rice and quinoa for a complete, balanced meal.

Save to Pinterest

This simple oven-baked method provides a versatile protein base that saves time in the kitchen while providing a delicious and healthy meal for any day of the week.

Boil water quickly for tea, coffee, instant soups, and faster prep when cooking grains or noodles.

Check price on Amazon

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I ensure my chicken breasts stay juicy?

To prevent dryness, gently pound the chicken to an even thickness of about ¾ inch. This promotes uniform cooking. Also, be sure not to overbake; remove the chicken once it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and allow it to rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing. This helps redistribute the juices.

→ Can I use different seasonings?

Absolutely! The provided seasoning blend is a classic, but feel free to experiment. Popular alternatives include Italian seasoning, chili powder, cumin, or a touch of cayenne for a spicy kick. Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme also complement chicken beautifully.

→ What's the best way to store leftover baked chicken?

Allow the cooked chicken to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This makes it excellent for meal prepping throughout the week. Reheat gently to maintain moisture.

→ Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a great alternative and often result in even juicier meat due to their higher fat content. If substituting, you may need to increase the baking time by an additional 5-7 minutes, ensuring they also reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

→ What are some good side dishes to serve with this?

This baked chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli, a fresh green salad, quinoa, rice, or mashed potatoes. It also makes a fantastic protein addition to pasta dishes or wraps.