Oven Baked Chicken Breast

When it comes to easy, healthy, and versatile meals, oven-baked chicken breast is a classic that never disappoints. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or looking for a simple protein to add to your favorite salads, sandwiches, or pasta dishes, oven-baked chicken breast is always a go-to. The key to making this dish truly stand out is ensuring that the chicken stays juicy, tender, and flavorful—no dry or bland chicken here!

Many people struggle with baking chicken breasts because they often come out dry and tough, but with the right technique, you can achieve perfectly moist and flavorful chicken every time. In this recipe, we’ll walk you through all the steps to make the best oven-baked chicken breast, from seasoning to temperature control. We’ll also share tips, variations, and serving suggestions so you can customize this dish to your liking.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned home cook, this guide to oven-baked chicken breast will help you master this essential recipe, resulting in delicious, tender chicken every time.

Why You’ll Love This Oven Baked Chicken Breast Recipe

1. Juicy and Tender: Say goodbye to dry chicken! This recipe ensures moist and tender chicken every time by using the perfect cooking temperature and time.
2. Quick and Easy: With minimal ingredients and prep, you can have flavorful chicken breasts on the table in under 30 minutes.
3. Versatile: Once you’ve mastered this basic recipe, you can use the chicken in a variety of dishes—salads, wraps, sandwiches, pasta, or even as the main course paired with your favorite side dishes.
4. Healthy and Protein-Packed: Chicken breast is a lean source of protein, making it a healthy option for any meal.
5. Great for Meal Prep: Oven-baked chicken breasts are perfect for meal prep. Cook up a batch and use the leftovers throughout the week in various dishes.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20-25 minutes
• Total time: 30-35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast per person

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 200 kcal
• Carbs: 1g
• Protein: 36g
• Fat: 5g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 0g

(These values are approximate and will vary depending on the size of the chicken breasts and any additional ingredients or toppings used.)

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Oven Baked Chicken Breast:

For the Chicken Breast:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 oz each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or oregano (optional, for extra flavor)

For Optional Garnishes and Toppings:

• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
• Lemon wedges (for serving)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for a cheesy twist)
• Balsamic glaze (for drizzling)
• Crushed red pepper flakes (for a bit of heat)

For Marinades (Optional):

• Lemon-Garlic Marinade:
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Honey-Mustard Marinade:
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

For Serving:

• Salads
• Roasted vegetables
• Rice or quinoa
• Pasta
• Mashed potatoes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Set the Temperature:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is the ideal temperature for baking chicken breasts, as it allows the chicken to cook quickly while keeping the inside moist.

2. Prepare a Baking Dish:

Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent the chicken breasts from sticking. You can also use a rimmed baking sheet if you prefer.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Breasts

1. Pound the Chicken (Optional):

For even cooking, you can use a meat mallet to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch thick. This step helps ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and reduces the risk of some parts becoming overcooked while others remain underdone.

2. Pat Dry:

Use paper towels to pat the chicken breasts dry. Removing excess moisture helps the seasoning stick to the chicken and promotes better browning.

3. Season the Chicken:

Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the chicken breasts, then season both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and thyme or oregano if using. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated with the seasoning.

Step 3: Bake the Chicken Breasts

1. Place in the Oven:

Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish, making sure they are not touching. This allows the heat to circulate evenly around the chicken.

2. Bake for 20-25 Minutes:

Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) when measured with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken. Baking time will vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken breasts.

3. Check for Doneness:

To ensure that the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The USDA recommends cooking chicken breasts to 165°F to ensure they are safe to eat.

Step 4: Rest the Chicken Breasts

1. Let the Chicken Rest:

Once the chicken breasts are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, ensuring that it stays moist and tender.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

1. Slice the Chicken:

After the chicken has rested, slice it into thin strips or serve the breasts whole, depending on how you plan to use them.

2. Garnish and Serve:

Garnish the chicken with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a fresh, zesty finish. You can also drizzle the chicken with a bit of balsamic glaze or top with grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.

Step 6: Enjoy Your Oven Baked Chicken Breasts

Now it’s time to enjoy your perfectly juicy and flavorful oven-baked chicken breasts! Serve them alongside your favorite sides, or use them in salads, sandwiches, or grain bowls for a complete meal.

How to Serve

• With a Side Salad: Serve the chicken breast on top of a fresh green salad with your favorite veggies, like tomatoes, cucumbers, and avocado. A drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette adds the perfect touch.
• In a Grain Bowl: Add the sliced chicken breast to a bowl of quinoa or brown rice, along with roasted vegetables, avocado, and a dollop of hummus for a nutritious and satisfying meal.
• As a Main Course: Pair the chicken breasts with roasted potatoes, steamed broccoli, or sautéed spinach for a simple and healthy dinner.
• In a Sandwich or Wrap: Use the chicken to make a sandwich or wrap with whole wheat bread or tortillas, along with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite condiments.
• Over Pasta: Slice the chicken and toss it into a bowl of cooked pasta with a light garlic and olive oil sauce, or use it in a creamy Alfredo for a comforting meal.

Additional Tips for Success

1. Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allowing the chicken to rest after baking is crucial for retaining its juices. Cutting into the chicken too soon can cause the juices to escape, resulting in drier meat.
2. Pound the Chicken for Even Cooking: Pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness helps them cook evenly and prevents some parts from becoming overcooked while others remain undercooked.
3. Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is cooked perfectly, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This helps avoid overcooking and ensures the chicken is safe to eat.
4. Marinate for Extra Flavor: If you have the time, marinating the chicken breasts for 30 minutes to a few hours can infuse them with extra flavor. A simple marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs works beautifully.
5. Avoid Overcooking: Chicken breasts can dry out easily if overcooked. Keep an eye on the cooking time, and check the temperature frequently to avoid overcooking.

Recipe Variations

This basic Oven Baked Chicken Breast recipe is incredibly versatile and can be customized to suit your tastes. Here are a few variations to try:

1. Lemon Herb Chicken Breast:

For a bright and zesty flavor, season the chicken breasts with lemon zest, lemon juice, thyme, and rosemary. Serve with lemon wedges for extra citrusy goodness.

2. Honey Garlic Chicken Breast:

Make a quick honey-garlic glaze by combining 2 tablespoons honey, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Brush the glaze over the chicken breasts during the last 5 minutes of baking for a sweet and savory finish.

3. Spicy Cajun Chicken Breast:

For a spicy kick, season the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, paprika, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. This bold seasoning blend adds tons of flavor and pairs well with rice or veggies.

4. Parmesan Crusted Chicken Breast:

For a crispy, cheesy coating, coat the chicken breasts in a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning before baking. This gives the chicken a crunchy texture and a rich flavor.

5. Mediterranean Chicken Breast:

Marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano for a Mediterranean twist. Serve with a side of tabbouleh or roasted vegetables.

6. Pesto Chicken Breast:

Spread basil pesto over the chicken breasts before baking, then top with mozzarella cheese during the last few minutes of cooking for a delicious Italian-inspired dish.

7. BBQ Chicken Breast:

For a smoky, tangy flavor, coat the chicken breasts in your favorite BBQ sauce before baking. Serve with corn on the cob and coleslaw for a classic BBQ meal.

Freezing and Storage

Storing Leftovers:

Store any leftover baked chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat the chicken in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Freezing the Chicken:

You can freeze cooked chicken breasts for up to 3 months. To freeze, allow the chicken to cool completely, then wrap each breast tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to use, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as needed.

Reheating Tips:

To avoid drying out the chicken when reheating, cover it with a damp paper towel in the microwave or reheat it in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Adding a splash of broth or water can help keep the chicken moist.

Special Equipment

• Baking dish or rimmed baking sheet: For baking the chicken breasts.
• Meat thermometer: To ensure the chicken is cooked to the proper internal temperature.
• Meat mallet: Optional, for pounding the chicken to an even thickness.
• Parchment paper or non-stick spray: To prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use bone-in chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken breasts, but the cooking time will be longer—about 35-40 minutes at 400°F. Be sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F before serving.

2. How do I keep the chicken breasts from drying out?

The key to keeping chicken breasts moist is not overcooking them. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature and remove the chicken from the oven as soon as it reaches 165°F. Letting the chicken rest after baking also helps retain its juices.

3. Can I bake frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, but baking frozen chicken breasts will take longer—about 40-45 minutes at 400°F. Be sure to check the internal temperature to ensure they are fully cooked.

4. Can I marinate the chicken breasts overnight?

Yes, marinating the chicken breasts overnight can infuse them with even more flavor. Just be sure to refrigerate the chicken while it marinates, and remove it from the fridge 30 minutes before baking to allow it to come to room temperature.

5. What should I do if my chicken breasts are too thick?

If your chicken breasts are thick and uneven, use a meat mallet to pound them to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This helps them cook evenly and reduces the risk of overcooking the thinner parts.

Conclusion

Oven Baked Chicken Breast is a simple, healthy, and incredibly versatile dish that you can enjoy in countless ways. Whether you’re making it as a main course for dinner, using it in salads or sandwiches, or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a must-have in any kitchen. With just a few basic ingredients and some helpful tips, you can achieve perfectly juicy and flavorful chicken breasts every time.

I hope you enjoy making and eating this delicious chicken as much as I do! Feel free to get creative with marinades, toppings, and sides to make it your own. Happy cooking!

Print