This easy oven-baked chicken breast is juicy and flavorful, making it a winner for any dinner. Just season, bake, and enjoy—simple as that!
I often whip this up when I’m short on time. Plus, it’s a hit with the family! Pair it with some veggies and you’ve got a yummy meal. Who doesn’t love that? 🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. If you prefer, thighs can be a good, juicier alternative. Just adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a bit longer to cook.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps the seasoning stick. You can substitute it with avocado oil or melted butter if that’s what you have on hand.
Seasonings: Garlic powder and paprika bring out great flavor. If you don’t have paprika, smoked paprika works too for a nice twist. Fresh garlic is also an option; use about 2 cloves, minced.
Herbs: Dried thyme gives a nice aromatic touch. If you have fresh thyme, it can enhance the flavor even more. Italian seasoning is also a fantastic alternative if you’re looking for variety.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Breasts Stay Juicy?
Keeping chicken breasts juicy can be a challenge, but here are some tips to help you succeed:
- Drying the Chicken: Patting it dry helps the oil and seasonings stick better and reduces steaming in the oven.
- Proper Baking Temperature: Baking at a high temperature (425°F) seals in juices quickly.
- Resting Period: After baking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute, making your chicken more moist.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked through without overdoing it!
How to Make Easy Juicy Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: lemon wedges and fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chicken recipe requires about 5 minutes of prep time, followed by 18-20 minutes of baking. Overall, you should set aside around 30 minutes to get everything ready and cooked perfectly.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help seal in the juices of the chicken and give it a nice golden color.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This removes any excess moisture and ensures that your chicken gets a nice sear while baking.
3. Arrange in Baking Dish:
Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet or in an ovenproof dish. Make sure to give them some space so they cook evenly.
4. Add the Olive Oil:
Drizzle the olive oil over both sides of the chicken breasts. Then, using your hands, rub the oil in to coat the chicken evenly. This helps the seasoning stick!
5. Season the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix the garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, thyme (or Italian seasoning), salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning mix generously over both sides of the chicken breasts.
6. Bake the Chicken:
Now it’s time to bake! Place the prepared chicken in the preheated oven and bake for about 18-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is no longer pink in the center.
7. Let It Rest:
Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps keep the juices inside the chicken, making it more flavorful and moist.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your juicy chicken with lemon wedges and fresh parsley if you like. Serve it warm and enjoy as part of a delicious meal!
Enjoy your juicy, flavor-packed chicken breasts!
FAQ for Easy Juicy Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
It’s best to thaw the chicken completely before cooking for even baking. You can thaw it in the fridge overnight or use the quick method by placing it in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about 1-2 hours.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil, you can use any neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil. Melted butter is also a great choice for adding extra flavor!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or gently in a pan on the stove to keep them juicy.
Can I Double the Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re cooking for a crowd, feel free to double the ingredients. Just make sure to give each piece space on the baking sheet so they cook evenly. You may need to increase the cooking time slightly depending on the size of the chicken breasts.
