Oven baked chicken breast has become my go-to recipe for busy weeknights. It’s so incredibly simple and healthy, yet it never fails to impress! I love how juicy and flavorful it turns out, making it perfect for any meal—whether it’s a quick dinner or a family gathering. The best part? You can whip it up in just about 35 minutes! It’s a lifesaver when I want something nutritious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, with just a handful of ingredients, I can easily keep my pantry stocked. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your home too. Let’s dive into the details and get cooking!
Ingredients List
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
These ingredients are not only simple but also come together to create a juicy and flavorful chicken that’s perfect for any occasion. Make sure to grab fresh parsley for that lovely pop of color and freshness right before serving! You can always adjust the spices to your taste, but this combination is my absolute favorite for a classic, delicious oven baked chicken breast.
How to Prepare Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Let’s get cooking! Making oven baked chicken breast is a breeze when you follow these simple steps. I promise you’ll have juicy, flavorful chicken ready in no time!
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is key because it ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and locks in all that delicious moisture. Trust me, starting with a hot oven makes all the difference!
Prepare the Chicken
Now, take those chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This might seem trivial, but drying the chicken is crucial for getting that beautiful golden-brown crust. If the chicken is wet, it can steam instead of bake, and we definitely want that gorgeous roasted flavor!
Make the Spice Mixture
In a bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir it up until it’s well combined; this is your magic blend! Coating the chicken evenly with this mixture will give you that burst of flavor in every bite, so take your time to make sure it’s all covered nicely.
Coat and Bake
Next, grab those chicken breasts and coat them with your spice mixture. I like to really massage it in for maximum flavor! Once coated, place the chicken in a baking dish, making sure they have a little space between them. Now, pop that dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll want to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for perfectly cooked chicken. A good meat thermometer is a must-have here!
Garnish and Serve
Once the chicken is done, let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, making each piece succulent and tender. Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for that lovely touch before serving. You’re going to love it!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s talk about some pro tips that’ll help you nail your oven baked chicken breast every single time! Trust me, these little tricks will make a big difference.
- Don’t skip the pat dry step: I can’t stress this enough! If your chicken is wet, it’ll steam instead of bake, and you won’t get that lovely crust. So, grab those paper towels and give your chicken a good pat down!
- Use a meat thermometer: This is your best friend in the kitchen! Checking the internal temperature is the only way to ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked. Aim for 165°F (75°C)—no more, no less!
- Let it rest: I know it’s tempting to dive right in, but letting the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking is crucial. It keeps the juices inside, making each bite super juicy and flavorful.
- Customize the spices: Feel free to get creative! If you love a little heat, add some cayenne pepper or chili powder. Want an Italian twist? Try adding some dried oregano or thyme. The possibilities are endless!
- Batch cook for the week: If you’re meal prepping, this recipe is perfect for it! Bake a few extra chicken breasts and store them in the fridge for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. They pair beautifully with salads or grain bowls!
Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and finding what works for you. Don’t be afraid to tweak things as you go, and soon you’ll have your very own signature oven baked chicken breast recipe!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to oven baked chicken breast, you’re not just getting a delicious meal; you’re also treating your body right! Here’s a quick breakdown of the estimated nutritional values per serving (1 chicken breast):
- Calories: 165
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Protein: 31 g
- Carbohydrates: 0 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
This is based on standard ingredients, so keep in mind that variations in cooking methods or added ingredients may change these values slightly. Overall, it’s a healthy, low-fat option that packs a punch of protein, making it a great choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet without sacrificing flavor. Enjoy your meal guilt-free!
Variations
If you’re looking to shake things up with your oven baked chicken breast, you’re in for a treat! There are so many fun ways to customize this dish to keep it exciting. Here are a few of my favorite variations:
- Herb Lovers Delight: Swap out the spices for a mix of fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and oregano. Just chop them up and mix them into the olive oil for an aromatic twist!
- Asian-Inspired: Add soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil to the olive oil mixture for a delicious Asian flair. Serve with steamed rice and veggies for a complete meal!
- Spicy Kick: If you love heat, mix in some cayenne pepper or chili powder with the spices. You can even marinate the chicken in hot sauce for a few hours before baking!
- Mustard Glaze: Combine Dijon mustard and honey with the olive oil for a sweet and tangy coating. It adds a fantastic flavor and pairs well with roasted vegetables!
- Citrus Burst: Squeeze some lemon or lime juice into the spice mixture, and add zest for a fresh, zesty flavor that brightens up the chicken beautifully!
Feel free to get creative! These variations can transform your oven baked chicken breast into a whole new dish every time. Enjoy experimenting and finding your favorite combinations!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made this delicious oven baked chicken breast and have some leftovers? Don’t worry! Storing them correctly is super easy, and it’ll keep your chicken juicy and flavorful for days!
To store your leftovers, let the chicken cool down to room temperature first. Then, place the chicken breasts in an airtight container. You can keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to save them for longer, feel free to freeze the chicken! Just wrap each breast tightly in plastic wrap and then pop them into a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last for about 2-3 months in the freezer.
When it comes to reheating, I recommend using the oven to maintain that lovely juiciness. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in a baking dish and cover it with foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too! Just pop the chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat it in short bursts, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
Whichever method you choose, your oven baked chicken breast will still be delicious and ready to enjoy again!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Absolutely! You can use frozen chicken breasts, but you’ll need to adjust your cooking time. It’s best to thaw them first in the refrigerator overnight for even cooking. If you’re short on time, you can bake them from frozen, but expect the cooking time to increase by about 50%, so plan for roughly 30-40 minutes. Just make sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety!
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The best way to check for doneness is with a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken breast, and look for a temperature of 165°F (75°C). This ensures that your chicken is perfectly cooked and safe to eat. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can cut into the chicken; the juices should run clear, and the meat should no longer be pink inside.
Can I marinate the chicken beforehand?
Yes, marinating is a fantastic way to add extra flavor to your oven baked chicken breast! You can marinate it for as little as 30 minutes or up to 24 hours in the fridge. A simple marinade with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and your favorite herbs works beautifully. Just remember to pat the chicken dry before coating it with the spice mixture for roasting, as this will help achieve that lovely crust!
What sides pair well with this dish?
Oven baked chicken breast is super versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! For a healthy option, try serving it with roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts. A fresh garden salad or a quinoa salad also complements it beautifully. If you’re in the mood for something hearty, mashed potatoes or brown rice are delicious choices that soak up any juices from the chicken!
Imprimer
Oven Baked Chicken Breast: 5 Secrets for Juicy Perfection
- Temps Total: 35 minutes
- Rendement: 4 servings 1x
- Alimentation: Faible En Gras
Description
Oven baked chicken breast is a simple and healthy dish. It is juicy and flavorful, perfect for any meal.
Ingrédients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Coat chicken breasts with the mixture.
- Place chicken in a baking dish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Serve with vegetables or a salad.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Temps De Préparation: 10 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 25 minutes
- Catégorie: Main Dish
- Méthode: Baking
- Cuisine: American
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 165
- Sucre: 0 g
- De Sodium: 400 mg
- La graisse: 6 g
- Graisses Saturées: 1.5 g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 4.5 g
- Les Gras Trans: 0 g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 0 g
- La fibre: 0 g
- La protéine: 31 g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 90 mg
Mots-clés: oven baked chicken breast, healthy chicken recipe, easy chicken dinner
