Oven-Baked Chicken Breast is a quick, easy, and flavorful option for any weeknight dinner. With just a few basic spices, you’ll have juicy, tender chicken that’s perfect for meals with family or guests—no fuss required.
Why We Love This Oven Baked Chicken Breast Recipe
There’s something incredibly satisfying about a perfectly cooked chicken breast that’s tender and juicy. The aroma wafts through your kitchen as you prepare it, filling the air with delightful scents. This specific recipe stands out for several reasons.
First, it uses simple ingredients that you likely already have on hand, making it a go-to option for a last-minute dinner. The combination of paprika, garlic powder, and oregano adds depth to the flavor without overwhelming your palate. Second, its straightforward preparation allows even beginner cooks to succeed. Plus, with just a few minutes of active time, you can click a button and let the oven do the work.
What’s more, this recipe is highly versatile. You can easily pair it with a variety of sides, from rice to roasted vegetables. It fits perfectly into various dietary preferences, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.
Ultimately, the baked chicken breast isn’t just a meal—it’s a meal that can be enjoyed in different ways, making it a staple in kitchens everywhere.
Ingredients about Oven Baked Chicken Breast
To create this delicious oven-baked chicken breast, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 (6-ounce) boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped for serving
These ingredients come together to create a flavorful dish that will elevate your dinner. They balance perfectly to ensure that each bite is packed with flavor.
How to Make Oven Baked Chicken Breast Directions
Making oven-baked chicken breast is as easy as 1-2-3. Follow these simple directions, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F. This temperature is ideal for achieving tender chicken with a slight crisp on the outside.
- Prepare Your Baking Sheet: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents the chicken from sticking and makes cleanup easier afterward.
- Pound the Chicken: Take your boneless skinless chicken breasts and use a meat mallet to pound them down to an even thickness of about a 1/4-inch. This step is essential for ensuring that the chicken cooks evenly.
- Mix the Seasonings: In a large bow, combine the paprika, garlic powder, oregano, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the olive oil to the mixture and stir well to create a paste.
- Coat the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts into the bowl with the spice mixture, ensuring that each piece is evenly coated. You want the spices to adhere well for maximum flavor.
- Bake the Chicken: Arrange the coated chicken on your prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-17 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. To add a nice golden brown color, switch your oven to broil for the last two minutes of cooking.
- Let It Rest: Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it moist.
- Serve: Before serving, drizzle the chicken with the pan juices and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant touch.
Following these steps, you’ll be able to serve up an oven-baked chicken breast that is both delicious and visually appealing.
How to Serve Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Serving your oven-baked chicken breast is where you can get creative. This versatile dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, allowing you to tailor your meal to your preferences or what you have available in your kitchen.
For a complete dinner, consider serving your chicken alongside steamed broccoli or green beans for a refreshing crunch. A fluffy rice pilaf or creamy mashed potatoes also make excellent accompaniments, soaking up the delightful pan juices.
You might also want to consider a fresh salad as a light side. A simple mixed green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette can brighten the meal and provide a contrast to the savory chicken.
Finally, don’t forget a splash of color with some cherry tomatoes or roasted bell peppers on the plate. They not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a hint of sweetness that balances the savory chicken beautifully.
Expert Tips: Oven Baked Chicken Breast
To ensure that your oven-baked chicken breast turns out perfectly every time, here are some expert tips:
- Pounding the Chicken: Equal thickness is key to getting evenly cooked chicken. Pounding the chicken to 1/4-inch ensures that the thicker parts cook through while the thinner areas don’t dry out.
- Season Well: Don’t be shy with the spices! Make sure each piece of chicken is well-coated with the seasoning paste for maximum flavor.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For the juiciest results, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. Once it reads 165°F, pull it from the oven.
- Resting Time: Allowing the chicken to rest after baking is crucial. This step helps lock in moisture, making it more tender.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to tweak the seasoning to match your personal taste. Adding herbs like thyme or rosemary can give a different flavor profile.
Following these tips will help ensure that your oven-baked chicken breast comes out just right every time.
How to Store Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Storing leftover oven-baked chicken breast is an easy process that helps extend the life of your delicious creation. After serving, allow any leftovers to cool completely. Once cooled, place the chicken in an airtight container.
In the refrigerator, oven-baked chicken breast will last for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. To do this, wrap each piece tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, the chicken should retain its quality for up to three months in the freezer.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in the oven or microwave until reaching your desired temperature, making sure to keep it moist to avoid dryness.
Variation of Oven Baked Chicken Breast
While the classic flavor of this baked chicken breast is hard to beat, you can easily switch things up by experimenting with variations. Here are some ideas to inspire your creativity:
- Herb Infusion: Instead of sticking to paprika and garlic powder, try infusing with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. Chopping these herbs finely and mixing them into your olive oil gives a fragrant twist.
- Citrus Zest: Add a splash of freshness by incorporating citrus zest—like lemon or lime—into your spice mix. This adds crisp notes that brighten the dish.
- Cheesy Finish: In the final minutes of cooking, sprinkle some shredded cheese over the chicken for a melt-in-your-mouth texture that complements the seasonings.
- Honey Glaze: A drizzle of honey over the seasoned chicken before baking can introduce a delightful hint of sweetness that balances with the savory spices beautifully.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce to the spice mixture. This variation will delight those who enjoy a little kick in their meal.
With these variations, you can keep things exciting and catered to your taste.
FAQ
What is the best way to cook oven-baked chicken breast?
The best way to cook oven-baked chicken breast is by ensuring an even thickness through pounding, seasoning it well, and using the right cooking temperature for the juiciest results.
How long does it take to bake chicken breast in the oven?
When preheated to 425°F, it typically takes about 15-17 minutes to bake chicken breast until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Can I use frozen chicken breast for this recipe?
It’s best to use thawed chicken breast for this recipe to ensure even cooking. If using frozen chicken, allow it to thaw completely before following the recipe instructions.
What should I serve with oven-baked chicken breast?
You can serve oven-baked chicken breast with a variety of sides, including steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
How can I make my baked chicken breast more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor of your baked chicken breast, ensure it’s well-seasoned with spices and allow it to marinate for a few hours or even overnight before cooking.
Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts (6-ounce each)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon oregano
- 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For Serving
- to taste fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 425°F.
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/4-inch.
Mixing Seasonings
- In a large bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, oregano, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the olive oil to the mixture and stir well to create a paste.
Coating and Baking
- Coat the chicken breasts evenly with the spice mixture.
- Arrange the coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-17 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- For a golden brown color, switch your oven to broil for the last two minutes.
Serving
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes.
- Drizzle the chicken with the pan juices and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.