Oven Baked Chicken Breast Recipe
This Oven Baked Chicken Breast recipe yields moist, flavorful chicken with a golden crust. Quick, simple, and delicious.
Equipment
- 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.