If you're looking for a simple, delicious, and healthy way to prepare chicken, you've come to the right place! This Oven Baked Chicken Breast Recipe guarantees perfectly juicy, tender chicken breasts every time. In this article, we’ll walk you through all the steps, from gathering ingredients to serving tips, so that you can master this classic dish with ease. Keep reading to discover how to make this staple meal that will quickly become one of your go-to recipes!
What is “Oven Baked Chicken Breast”?
"Oven Baked Chicken Breast" is a simple, versatile dish that involves cooking boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the oven until they are perfectly cooked through. Unlike frying or grilling, baking in the oven provides even cooking and allows for easy flavor infusions through marinades or seasonings. Whether you're meal-prepping for the week or preparing dinner for the family, this dish fits all occasions.
Now, let's get into the details, starting with the ingredients.
Ingredients List for Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare your oven-baked chicken breast:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (around 6-8 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1 teaspoon of paprika (for color and subtle smokiness)
- ½ teaspoon of dried thyme (or any herb of your choice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
These ingredients are basic yet provide an excellent base for perfectly flavored chicken breasts. Now, let's move on to some variations you can try.
Ingredients List for Oven Baked Chicken Breast Variations
You can always tweak the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some ideas for variations:
- Herb Lovers' Chicken: Swap the thyme for a blend of fresh herbs like rosemary, sage, and oregano.
- Lemon-Garlic Chicken: Add 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice and 1 tablespoon of lemon zest for a zesty, fresh flavor.
- Spicy Cajun Chicken: Replace the paprika and thyme with 2 teaspoons of Cajun seasoning for a spicier kick.
- Honey Mustard Chicken: Mix 2 tablespoons of honey with 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard and drizzle it over the chicken before baking.
These simple variations can change the flavor profile entirely, allowing you to adapt the recipe depending on what you're craving.
Substitutions and Variations
Sometimes, you might not have all the ingredients on hand or prefer to substitute certain items. Here are some common substitutions for oven-baked chicken breast:
- Chicken Thighs: Prefer dark meat? Swap chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Just note that thighs may need an additional 5-10 minutes in the oven.
- Butter: You can use melted butter instead of olive oil if you prefer a richer taste.
- Spice Swap: If you’re out of paprika or garlic powder, chili powder or cumin can provide a smoky flavor. Alternatively, Italian seasoning is a great all-in-one herb substitute.
These substitutions allow you to experiment with different flavors while keeping the recipe straightforward and accessible.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that we’ve covered the ingredients, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of cooking. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to cooking perfect oven-baked chicken breasts.
- Preheat your oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). A higher temperature helps to lock in moisture, keeping the chicken breasts juicy.
- Prepare the chicken: Pat your chicken breasts dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This step ensures the seasonings stick well and helps the chicken brown in the oven.
- Season the chicken: Rub each chicken breast with olive oil, then sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper evenly over the chicken. Be sure to season both sides for maximum flavor.
- Arrange in a baking dish: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish, leaving a little space between each one to allow even cooking.
- Bake: Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 18-25 minutes, depending on the size of the breasts. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) when done.
- Rest: Once out of the oven, allow the chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Resting helps to redistribute the juices, ensuring moist and tender meat.
How to Cook Oven Baked Chicken Breast: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Preheat Oven: Heat the oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven is essential for locking in the juices.
- Season: After patting dry, drizzle the chicken with olive oil and sprinkle seasonings over the top. Massage the spices in to ensure they're well coated.
- Bake: Place the chicken breasts in a dish and bake them for 18-25 minutes, depending on size.
- Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) internally. This is critical for safe cooking and optimal juiciness.
- Let It Rest: Always rest the chicken for about 5-10 minutes to retain its moisture. Slice and serve.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the Resting Time: Cutting into the chicken too soon will result in dry meat as the juices haven’t had time to redistribute.
- Overcooking: Baking chicken for too long will dry it out. Always check the internal temperature at 18 minutes, especially if your chicken breasts are smaller.
- Not Using Enough Seasoning: Chicken breast is naturally lean and mild, so don’t be shy with the spices and seasoning.
- Using Cold Chicken: Let your chicken sit out for 15-20 minutes before cooking to bring it closer to room temperature. This allows for more even cooking.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Once your chicken is perfectly baked, it's time to serve it. Here's how to make sure it looks as good as it tastes:
- Garnish: Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or cilantro on top for a pop of color.
- Serve with a side: Oven-baked chicken pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad.
- Sauce it up: Offer a dipping sauce like honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or a garlic aioli on the side for extra flavor.
How to Serve Oven Baked Chicken Breast
There are countless ways to serve your oven-baked chicken breast. Here are a few ideas:
- Over Rice or Quinoa: Lay the sliced chicken breast over a bed of rice or quinoa for a wholesome meal.
- In a Salad: Dice the chicken and toss it in a leafy green salad with avocado, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette.
- In Sandwiches or Wraps: Thinly slice the chicken and use it in sandwiches, wraps, or even tacos for a healthy, protein-packed lunch.
Presentation Ideas for Oven Baked Chicken Breast
If you’re serving guests, presentation matters. Here are some ideas to make your dish visually appealing:
- Sliced on a Diagonal: Cutting the chicken breasts diagonally makes for an attractive presentation.
- Arrange on a Platter: Lay the sliced chicken on a large platter and garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges.
- Top with a Sauce: Drizzle with a balsamic glaze or herb-infused olive oil for an elegant finish.
Oven Baked Chicken Breast Recipe Tips
- Pound the Chicken: If your chicken breasts are uneven in thickness, use a meat mallet to pound them to an even size. This ensures that they cook evenly.
- Brine for Extra Juiciness: If you have the time, soak the chicken breasts in a simple brine of saltwater for 30 minutes before seasoning and baking. This helps the chicken stay extra juicy and flavorful.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Invest in a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. It’s the best way to ensure your chicken is perfectly done.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
A: Yes, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time. Thawing the chicken beforehand is preferable for more even cooking.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover baked chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Q: Can I freeze cooked chicken breasts?
A: Yes, baked chicken breasts freeze well. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I bake chicken breasts with skin on?
A: Absolutely! Baking with the skin on can result in a crispier exterior, though the cooking time may vary slightly.
Conclusion
Baking chicken breasts in the oven is a simple yet highly effective way to cook juicy, flavorful chicken that can be used in a variety of meals. With the tips and steps outlined in this guide, you’ll never have to worry about dry or bland chicken again. Whether you're preparing dinner for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this oven-baked chicken breast recipe will always deliver. So, what are you waiting for? Head to the kitchen and start cooking!
PrintOven Baked Chicken Breast Recipe
This oven-baked chicken breast recipe delivers juicy, tender chicken seasoned with simple spices. It's a healthy and easy option for any meal. Perfectly cooked in the oven, this chicken breast turns out flavorful and moist every time. Ideal for meal prep or a quick dinner!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pound the chicken breasts to even thickness.
- Mix olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the mixture onto the chicken breasts.
- Place chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 18-22 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra juiciness, brine the chicken in salted water for 15-30 minutes before cooking.
- Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 350mg
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