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.