Oven Baked Chicken Breast Recipe

Introduction

Oven Baked Chicken Breast is the epitome of simple, healthy, and flavorful comfort food. This recipe guarantees juicy, tender chicken every time, with a crispy exterior that locks in all the delicious juices. Perfect for meal prepping, family dinners, or serving guests, baked chicken breast is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and sauces.

Unlike frying or grilling, oven baking chicken breast ensures the meat stays moist and tender without the need for excessive oil or butter. Plus, it’s a hands-off cooking method, meaning you can focus on other tasks while the chicken bakes to perfection. Whether you’re cooking for one or preparing a meal for the whole family, this oven baked chicken breast recipe is both foolproof and delicious.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of baking chicken breasts, offer tips for achieving the perfect texture, and share some fun variations to keep your meals interesting. From seasoning choices to baking techniques, we’ve got you covered.

Why You’ll Love Oven Baked Chicken Breast

• Juicy and Tender: Oven baking keeps the chicken moist, ensuring a juicy, tender bite every time. This method locks in the chicken’s natural flavors and creates a crispy exterior without drying out the meat.
• Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can have a flavorful chicken breast ready in less than 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
• Healthy Option: Baked chicken breast is a lean source of protein, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to eat healthy. By baking rather than frying, you reduce unnecessary fats and calories.
• Versatile: You can season your chicken breast with a variety of spices, herbs, and marinades to create different flavor profiles. It pairs well with nearly any side dish, from roasted vegetables to rice and salad.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Baked chicken breast stores well in the fridge and can be used for meal prep throughout the week. Simply bake a large batch and use the chicken in salads, sandwiches, wraps, or as a topping for grain bowls.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 25-30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 5-10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings (1 chicken breast per serving)
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 165-200 calories per serving, depending on the seasoning and cooking method used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 165-200 kcal
• Fat: 3-5g
• Carbohydrates: 0-2g
• Protein: 30-35g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 0g

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or your favorite dried herb)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for extra freshness)
• Fresh parsley or thyme (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken Breasts

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature helps to cook the chicken quickly while still creating a juicy interior and crispy exterior.

Next, place the chicken breasts on a cutting board or clean surface. Use a paper towel to pat the chicken breasts dry. Removing excess moisture helps the seasoning stick better and promotes a nice, crispy texture during baking.

If your chicken breasts are uneven in thickness, consider pounding them to an even thickness using a meat mallet. This step helps ensure even cooking, so the chicken doesn’t dry out at the thinner parts while waiting for the thicker parts to cook through. To do this, place the chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap or wax paper, then gently pound it with the flat side of a meat mallet until it’s about 1 inch thick.

2. Season the Chicken Breasts

Once the chicken breasts are dry and of even thickness, it’s time to season them. Drizzle olive oil (or melted butter) over each chicken breast, then rub it in to evenly coat the meat. This adds moisture and helps the seasoning adhere better.

Next, sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), dried thyme, salt, and black pepper over both sides of the chicken breasts. Massage the seasoning into the meat, ensuring an even coat. If you prefer extra flavor, you can add additional herbs or spices, such as rosemary, cayenne pepper, or Italian seasoning. A squeeze of lemon juice over the chicken just before baking also adds brightness and freshness to the flavor.

3. Bake the Chicken

Place the seasoned chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup. Alternatively, you can lightly grease the baking sheet with a bit of olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes. The exact baking time will depend on the size and thickness of the chicken breasts. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the chicken breast.

For best results, avoid opening the oven door too frequently while baking, as this can cause temperature fluctuations and may affect the cooking time. Once the chicken reaches the proper temperature, remove it from the oven.

4. Rest the Chicken

After baking, let the chicken breasts rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken. If you slice the chicken immediately after baking, you may lose some of the moisture, so be patient.

During the resting period, you can prepare your side dishes or garnish the chicken with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.

5. Serve and Enjoy

After resting, slice the chicken breasts into strips or serve them whole. Enjoy them as they are, or pair them with your favorite sides. Oven baked chicken breast is perfect alongside roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, quinoa, salad, or even served on a sandwich or in a wrap.

Tips for Perfect Oven Baked Chicken Breast

• Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid overcooking, use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is perfectly cooked. The chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part to be safe to eat.
• Pound the Chicken: If your chicken breasts are uneven in thickness, pound them to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly. This prevents dry edges while waiting for the thicker center to cook through.
• Let the Chicken Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest after baking ensures the juices redistribute, which keeps the meat tender and juicy.
• Add Flavor with Marinades: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken breasts for 30 minutes to an hour before baking. Try a simple marinade with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs.
• Customize Your Seasonings: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your seasoning! Try adding different herbs and spices like Italian seasoning, Cajun seasoning, or even a touch of brown sugar for sweetness. You can also use freshly minced garlic for a more intense garlic flavor.
• Use a Baking Rack: If you prefer a crispier chicken, place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet. This will elevate the chicken off the sheet and allow air to circulate, which helps the chicken cook more evenly and creates a crispier exterior.

Variations of Oven Baked Chicken Breast

• Lemon Herb Chicken: For a fresh, zesty flavor, add lemon zest and a squeeze of lemon juice to your seasoning mix. Fresh thyme or rosemary pairs beautifully with the lemon, making this variation light and fragrant.
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken: After baking the chicken, top it with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of garlic powder. Place the chicken under the broiler for 2-3 minutes to melt the cheese for a crispy, cheesy finish.
• Cajun Baked Chicken: If you prefer a bit of heat, use Cajun seasoning in place of the garlic and thyme. This spice mix will add bold, smoky flavors to the chicken, perfect for serving with rice or in wraps.
• BBQ Chicken Breast: In the final few minutes of baking, brush your chicken breasts with your favorite BBQ sauce. This adds a smoky, tangy flavor and creates a nice glaze on the chicken.
• Stuffed Chicken Breast: For a more indulgent meal, try stuffing your chicken breasts before baking. You can fill them with spinach and feta, cheese and ham, or even a creamy ricotta filling for a delicious, satisfying dish.

Storage and Shelf Life

Oven baked chicken breast is great for meal prep, as it stores well in the fridge and can be used in various dishes throughout the week.

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover baked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the chicken is completely cooled before storing it to prevent moisture buildup inside the container.
• Freezing: To freeze, wrap the cooled chicken breasts tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen baked chicken will keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Oven Baked Chicken Breast

While oven baked chicken breast is delicious on its own, pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal. Here are a few ideas:

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, zucchini, bell peppers, or Brussels sprouts make a great side for baked chicken, adding flavor and texture contrast.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a comforting side that pairs well with the savory flavors of baked chicken breast. Try adding garlic or cheese for extra richness.
• Rice: A simple side of rice, whether white, brown, or cauliflower rice, makes for a great base to complement the chicken. Add some herbs or sautéed onions to the rice for added flavor.
• Salad: A light green salad with fresh veggies and a tangy vinaigrette is a refreshing side dish that balances the richness of the chicken.
• Quinoa: For a healthier grain option, quinoa is a great side dish that is both protein-packed and flavorful.

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Conclusion

Oven Baked Chicken Breast is a simple yet delicious meal that never goes out of style. With just a few ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a juicy, tender chicken breast with a crispy exterior. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight dinner, prepping meals for the week, or serving guests, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. With endless seasoning and variation options, baked chicken breast is the ultimate versatile dish that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table.