This tender and juicy Baked Chicken Breast recipe is incredibly easy to make and will become a favorite in your repertoire. With a simple seasoning rub and a few tricks up your sleeve, you’ll have perfectly cooked chicken breasts every time. Say goodbye to dry and flavorless chicken!
Chicken is an incredibly versatile protein that everyone loves. When you’re short on dinner ideas, simply pop some chicken breasts in the oven, make a quick salad, and you’re good to go. You can also serve this delicious baked chicken with mashed potatoes, rice, roasted vegetables, or even on top of a salad or in a sandwich. The possibilities are endless!
Baked Chicken Breast Recipe Ingredients
To make this flavorful baked chicken breast, you’ll only need a few simple ingredients:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use chicken breasts of similar size to ensure even cooking.
- Olive Oil: Coat the chicken breasts with olive oil to keep them moist and help the seasonings stick.
- Seasonings: A combination of paprika, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper will give the chicken a delicious flavor. Feel free to add brown sugar for a caramelized crust or chili powder for a hint of heat. You can also try Italian seasoning instead of dried oregano.
Chicken Breast Seasoning
The seasoning blend used in this recipe always receives rave reviews. Alternatively, you can try Chicken Seasoning or Cajun Seasoning for a tasty twist. If you prefer a marinade, check out the easy Chicken Marinade recipe.
How to Make the Best Juicy Baked Chicken Breast
Follow these tips to achieve perfectly cooked, juicy chicken breasts in the oven:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F: This high heat ensures quick cooking and seals in the juices.
- Pat the chicken dry: Use paper towels to remove excess moisture from the chicken breasts.
- Even out the thickness: Place the chicken breasts in a zip-top bag or between two sheets of parchment paper and pound them to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin. This step helps the chicken cook evenly and tenderizes the meat.
- Place the chicken in a baking dish: Drizzle olive oil over the chicken breasts and rub it all over to coat them.
- Season the chicken: Sprinkle the seasoning mixture on both sides of the chicken breasts.
- Bake to perfection: Cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Be careful not to overbake, as this can lead to dry chicken.
- Let it rest: Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing or serving. This redistributes the juices and keeps the chicken moist.
Pro Tip: For the most tender chicken, always slice it against the grain.
How Long to Bake Chicken Breasts
The cooking time for boneless, skinless chicken breasts depends on their size and thickness. Use the following as a general guide when baking chicken breasts at 425°F:
- Small 5-6 ounce chicken breasts: 13-16 minutes
- Medium 8 ounce chicken breasts: 16-19 minutes
- Large 11-12 ounce chicken breasts: 22-26 minutes
To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use an instant-read thermometer to test the internal temperature. The USDA recommends a minimum internal temperature of 165°F for food safety. When the chicken reaches 155°F, it will finish cooking quickly, so pay close attention to avoid overcooking.
What to Serve with Baked Chicken
Enhance your baked chicken breast with these delicious side dishes:
- Baked Sweet Potato or Air Fryer Baked Potato
- Kale Salad or Greek Salad
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- Biscuit Recipe
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, follow these storage tips:
- Refrigerator: Store the baked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezer: To freeze the chicken, place it in an airtight container and store for up to 2 months. For best results, slice or shred the chicken before freezing. Thaw and add it directly to your recipes, such as casseroles. It’s best not to consume frozen chicken on its own.
More Favorite Chicken Breast Recipes
If you’re a fan of chicken breast, try these mouthwatering recipes:
- Air Fryer Chicken Breast
- Instant Pot Chicken Breast
- Grilled Chicken
- Chicken Marsala
- Chicken Piccata
- Poached Chicken
Enjoy your juicy and flavorful baked chicken breast! For more tasty recipes and inspiration, visit Ekilove.
