Hey there! I can’t tell you how much I love making oven baked chicken breast. It’s one of those go-to meals that’s not only super easy but also healthy and packed with flavor. Plus, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. I remember the first time I mastered this recipe; it was a total game-changer for my meal prep! The juicy chicken paired with your favorite sides makes for a wholesome dinner that everyone will enjoy. Trust me, once you try this method, you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again!
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making the juiciest oven baked chicken breast, so let’s make sure you have everything you need! Here’s what you’ll be working with:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika, if you prefer)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Feel free to adjust those seasonings based on your taste preferences! Maybe you love a little kick—add some cayenne pepper! Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, try a splash of lemon juice for a fresh twist. It’s all about making this dish your own!
How to Prepare Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Preheat and Prepare
Let’s get started! First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is super important because you want your chicken to cook evenly and get that lovely golden color. While the oven is heating up, grab your chicken breasts and pat them dry with some paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better and gives you that nice, crispy exterior!
Mixing the Seasoning
Now, let’s whip up that flavor-packed seasoning! In a medium-sized bowl, combine the 2 tablespoons of olive oil with 1 teaspoon each of salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and dried oregano. I like to use a whisk or a fork to mix it all together until it’s well combined. You want that gorgeous, fragrant mixture to coat every inch of the chicken. Don’t be shy—get your hands in there and rub that seasoning all over the chicken breasts! You’ll be amazed at how much flavor this brings to the dish.
Baking the Chicken
Once your chicken is seasoned, place the breasts in a baking dish, making sure they’re not crowded. Pop that dish in the oven and let the magic happen! Bake for about 20-25 minutes. Now, here’s a little tip: use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature—you’re aiming for 165°F (75°C). This ensures your chicken is perfectly cooked and juicy. Once done, take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This resting time is crucial; it allows the juices to redistribute, giving you that tender bite. Enjoy every flavorful moment!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any weeknight dinner.
- Juicy, flavorful chicken that pairs beautifully with any side dish.
- Healthy option that’s low in fat and high in protein.
- Uses simple, everyday ingredients you probably already have on hand.
- Can be easily customized with your favorite spices and marinades.
- Great for meal prep—make a batch for the week ahead!
- Delicious leftovers that make fantastic sandwiches or salads.
Tips for Success
To really nail this oven baked chicken breast recipe, here are a few pro tips you won’t want to miss! First, always use a meat thermometer for the most accurate results—trust me, it’s a game changer for juicy chicken. If you have time, marinating the chicken overnight can add so much flavor; just mix your seasonings with the olive oil and let it soak in the fridge. Also, remember to let the chicken rest for those 5 minutes after baking. This little step makes a big difference in keeping it tender. And don’t hesitate to try different herbs and spices; it’s a blank canvas just waiting for your creativity!
Nutritional Information
This oven baked chicken breast is not only delicious but also a healthy choice! Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional values per serving:
- Calories: 165
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Protein: 31g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Cholesterol: 70mg
With all that protein, it’s great for keeping you full and satisfied while still being low in carbs and fat. Perfect for anyone looking to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor!
FAQ Section
Got questions? I’ve got answers! Here are some common queries I get about making the perfect oven baked chicken breast:
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Frozen chicken takes longer to bake, so make sure to check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).
What can I serve with this chicken?
This chicken pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or even some fluffy rice. You can’t go wrong!
How can I add more flavor to my chicken?
Feel free to experiment! A marinade of yogurt and spices or a squeeze of lemon juice can elevate the flavor. You could also try different spice blends to keep things interesting!
Can I use skin-on chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Just remember that skin-on chicken may need a slightly longer baking time to ensure the skin gets crispy.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Perfect for making quick lunches or snacks!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your delicious oven baked chicken breast is super easy! Just let any leftovers cool down to room temperature, then transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the chicken! Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag—this way, they can last for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight. For reheating, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This keeps the chicken juicy and flavorful, just like when it was first made!
Oven Baked Chicken Breast: 7 Tips for Juicy Perfection
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Oven baked chicken breast is a simple and healthy dish. It is juicy and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and oregano.
- Rub the mixture over the chicken breasts.
- Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Marinate overnight for more flavor.
- Serve with vegetables or salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 165
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: oven baked chicken breast, healthy chicken recipe, easy chicken dinner
