Baked Chicken Breast Recipe

Why You’ll Love Baked Chicken Breast

Recipe

This baked chicken breast recipe is not only quick and easy but also results in perfectly cooked chicken every time. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced cook, this dish delivers a simple, no-fuss approach to cooking chicken. The baked chicken breasts stay moist and flavorful, and they’re versatile enough to pair with almost any side dish. Plus, it’s healthy and can be adapted to suit various tastes with different seasonings or marinades.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh herbs (optional, like thyme or rosemary)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel to ensure the seasoning sticks.

3. Rub both sides of the chicken breasts with olive oil, and then sprinkle with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. You can also add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor.

4. Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or in a greased baking dish.

5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).

6. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing or serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Chicken: Add some cayenne pepper or chili powder for a spicy kick.

• Herb-Infused: Try fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage for an earthy flavor.

• Lemon Garlic: Add lemon zest or juice along with garlic for a fresh, zesty twist.

• Marinated Chicken: Marinate the chicken breasts for 30 minutes to an hour in your favorite marinade for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover baked chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or microwave it for 1-2 minutes. For juicier results, cover the chicken with foil when reheating in the oven.

FAQs

How do I make sure the chicken breast stays juicy?

To keep chicken breasts juicy, make sure not to overcook them. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, and remove the chicken when it reaches 165°F (75°C).

Can I bake chicken breasts without oil?

Yes, you can bake chicken breasts without oil, but using olive oil helps to lock in moisture and adds flavor.

Should I bake chicken breasts covered or uncovered?

Baking the chicken breasts uncovered helps achieve a nice golden exterior. However, if you’re concerned about the chicken drying out, you can cover it loosely with foil during the first half of the baking time.

How long does it take to bake chicken breasts at 400°F?

It typically takes 20-25 minutes to bake chicken breasts at 400°F (200°C), depending on their size.

Can I bake frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can bake frozen chicken breasts, but you will need to increase the cooking time by about 50%. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

What’s the best way to season baked chicken breasts?

The best way to season chicken breasts is with a combination of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. You can also add fresh or dried herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.

Can I use bone-in chicken breasts?

Yes, bone-in chicken breasts will take longer to bake—usually around 35-45 minutes at 400°F (200°C).

How do I know when baked chicken is done?

The best way to check if chicken is done is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) when inserted into the thickest part of the chicken.

What sides go well with baked chicken breasts?

Baked chicken breasts pair well with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It’s also great for meal prep.

Conclusion

This baked chicken breast recipe is a simple, delicious, and versatile dish that’s perfect for any meal. With minimal ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, you can enjoy juicy, flavorful chicken in no time. Whether you serve it with vegetables, a salad, or your favorite side dish, this recipe is sure to become a weeknight staple in your kitchen.

Baked Chicken Breast Recipe

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Learn how to make perfectly juicy and tender baked chicken breast in this easy recipe. With just a few simple ingredients and 30 minutes, you’ll have a healthy and delicious main dish!

• Author: Emily
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the seasonings stick and ensures a crispy exterior.
• Rub each chicken breast with olive oil.
• In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and thyme. Sprinkle this seasoning mix evenly over both sides of the chicken.
• Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
• Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve.

Notes

• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the seasoning mixture for 30 minutes to 2 hours before baking.
• The cooking time may vary based on the thickness of the chicken breasts, so it’s best to use a meat thermometer.
• This recipe works well for meal prep! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.