Intro

There’s something so satisfying about a perfectly cooked chicken breast that’s juicy, tender, and packed with flavor. Over the years, I’ve experimented with countless methods, but the Oven Baked Chicken Breast has become my go-to for both simplicity and reliability.

It’s one of those recipes that feels like magic: a straightforward preparation transforms a basic chicken breast into a juicy, flavorful centerpiece for any meal.

I first tried baking chicken breasts in the oven on a hectic weeknight when I needed dinner on the table fast but didn’t want to compromise on taste. The golden-brown crust, the savory aroma of herbs, garlic, and olive oil filling my kitchen, and the tender, moist meat inside convinced me that this was a recipe worth keeping forever.

This Oven Baked Chicken Breast Recipe is perfect for home cooks who want a reliable, easy, and delicious way to make chicken that isn’t dry or bland. Serve it with roasted vegetables, over a salad, or alongside a creamy pasta—its versatility makes it a kitchen staple.

What is Oven Baked Chicken Breast?

Oven Baked Chicken Breast is a simple yet classic dish that highlights the natural flavor of chicken. By baking the breasts in a carefully balanced combination of olive oil, herbs, garlic, and seasonings, the chicken stays tender while developing a flavorful crust.

Unlike pan-frying, this method keeps the meat juicy without adding extra fat, making it a healthy and satisfying option.

The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. You can adjust herbs and spices to suit your taste, or marinate the chicken for extra depth. The result is always the same: a perfectly cooked, juicy chicken breast that’s tender from the first bite to the last.

Why This Recipe Works

This easy Oven Baked Chicken Breast Recipe works because it combines simplicity with smart techniques. Brushing the chicken with olive oil ensures moisture, while the high oven temperature helps create a lightly crisp exterior. Herbs and garlic infuse flavor, and resting the chicken after baking keeps it juicy.

As a female chef, I love recipes that deliver consistent results without overcomplicating things. This is a recipe you can rely on whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or making dinner for guests.

Equipment List

Baking sheet or roasting pan
Parchment paper or aluminum foil
Meat thermometer
Basting brush (optional)
Knife and cutting board

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or mix of thyme, rosemary, oregano)

Optional ingredients:

Fresh lemon slices for serving
Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Marinade of your choice (e.g., balsamic or honey mustard)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). High heat helps the chicken develop a golden, flavorful exterior while keeping the inside juicy.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the seasonings stick and ensures a better crust. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

Sprinkle salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and Italian herbs evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts. Press gently so the seasonings adhere.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. Place the chicken breasts on the sheet, leaving a little space between each piece. Bake for 18–22 minutes, depending on the size of the breasts, or until a meat thermometer reads 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Rest the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.

Serving Suggestions

Oven Baked Chicken Breast is versatile and pairs well with many dishes:

Serve with roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad
Slice and use in sandwiches, wraps, or salads
Pair with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta
Drizzle with lemon juice or a light sauce for extra flavor

Chef’s Tips for Juicy Chicken

Don’t skip the resting step—it’s key for juiciness.
Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
Patting the chicken dry before seasoning helps the crust form.
Optional: marinate chicken for 30 minutes to 2 hours for extra flavor.

Make It Your Own

Try different seasoning blends like Cajun, smoked paprika, or curry powder.
Add minced garlic or grated Parmesan to the seasoning mix.
Serve with a creamy sauce like mushroom or pesto for a twist.

FAQs

Can I bake chicken breasts from frozen?
Yes, but increase the baking time by 50% and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

How do I keep baked chicken moist?
Pat it dry, brush with olive oil, and rest after baking.

Can I meal prep using this recipe?
Absolutely! Store baked chicken in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

This Oven Baked Chicken Breast Recipe proves that simple ingredients and smart techniques can create a juicy, flavorful chicken breast every time. It’s reliable, easy, and versatile—a perfect weeknight dinner, meal prep staple, or base for other creative dishes. With this recipe, you’ll always have a dependable, delicious chicken option ready to impress.

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