Simple Oven Baked Chicken Breast

Imagine sinking your teeth into perfectly juicy, tender Simple Oven Baked Chicken Breast with a golden, seasoned exterior that practically melts in your mouth. This no-fuss recipe transforms ordinary chicken into a weeknight dinner superstar with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or need a reliable protein for tonight’s dinner, this Simple Oven Baked Chicken Breast recipe delivers consistently excellent results every time. You’ll learn the foolproof method to avoid dry, bland chicken while mastering the ideal cooking temperature and time for succulent chicken breasts that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Simple Oven Baked Chicken Breast recipe will quickly become your go-to method for several compelling reasons. First, it’s incredibly versatile—the perfectly cooked chicken can anchor countless meals, from salads to sandwiches to pasta dishes. The contrast between the seasoned, slightly crisp exterior and the juicy, tender interior creates a textural experience that elevates this simple protein to new heights.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, you can create restaurant-quality chicken in under 30 minutes. The hands-off cooking method means you can focus on preparing side dishes or simply relax while your oven does the work.

Health-conscious cooks will appreciate that this baked chicken breast recipe delivers incredible flavor without excessive oil or complicated ingredients. It’s naturally high in protein, low in carbs, and can easily fit into most dietary plans. The reliable technique ensures your chicken turns out perfectly moist every time—no more disappointing, dried-out chicken breasts!

Ingredients

For perfect Simple Oven Baked Chicken Breast, you’ll need:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 pounds total)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika (sweet or smoked)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

The quality of your chicken matters significantly for this oven baked chicken recipe. Look for chicken breasts that are similar in size and thickness to ensure even cooking. If possible, opt for organic or free-range chicken for the best flavor. The simple seasoning blend creates a versatile flavor profile that complements almost any side dish, while the olive oil helps lock in moisture and promotes beautiful browning.

Pro Tips

Master the Pounding Technique: For evenly cooked baked chicken breasts, pound them to a uniform thickness of about ¾-inch. Place the chicken between two sheets of plastic wrap or in a large zip-top bag and gently pound with a meat mallet or heavy skillet, focusing on the thicker parts. This simple step prevents the thinner parts from drying out while the thicker parts finish cooking.

Don’t Skip the Resting Period: After removing your Simple Oven Baked Chicken Breast from the oven, let it rest for at least 5-10 minutes before slicing. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat rather than running out when cut immediately. Tent loosely with foil to keep it warm while resting for the juiciest results.

Use a Meat Thermometer: The most reliable way to achieve perfectly cooked chicken is to use an instant-read thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the breast—when it registers 165°F (74°C), your chicken is done. This eliminates guesswork and ensures food safety while preventing overcooking. Remember that chicken will continue cooking slightly even after it’s removed from the oven.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This higher temperature creates a nicely browned exterior while keeping the inside juicy. Take your chicken breasts and pat them completely dry with paper towels—this is crucial for proper browning. If the chicken breasts are uneven in thickness, pound them as described in the pro tips section. Place the prepared chicken on a clean cutting board and let them come to room temperature for about 15 minutes, which promotes even cooking.

Step 2: Season Generously
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, paprika, dried oregano, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using). Drizzle the olive oil over both sides of the chicken breasts, then rub the seasoning mixture thoroughly onto all surfaces. Don’t rush this step—proper seasoning distribution is key to flavorful Simple Oven Baked Chicken Breast. The oil helps the seasonings adhere while also assisting with browning and moisture retention.

Step 3: Arrange for Baking
Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easier cleanup. Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave some space between each piece to promote air circulation. For an extra boost of flavor, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken just before baking.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking sheet on the middle rack of your preheated oven. Bake the chicken breasts for 16-22 minutes, depending on their thickness. For the most accurate results, use your meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The chicken should have a beautiful golden color on the outside when done. If you’d like a more golden top, you can broil the chicken for the final 1-2 minutes, but watch it carefully to prevent burning.

Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once your Simple Oven Baked Chicken Breast reaches the proper temperature, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Transfer the chicken to a clean cutting board and tent loosely with foil. Allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing against the grain. This resting period is non-negotiable for juicy results! Serve your perfectly baked chicken breast with your favorite sides and enjoy the tender, flavorful results of your minimal effort.

Variations

Herb Garden Chicken: Transform your Simple Oven Baked Chicken Breast by using fresh herbs instead of dried. Create a vibrant mixture of 2 tablespoons each of finely chopped fresh rosemary, thyme, and parsley combined with the olive oil, salt, and pepper. This variation brings a bright, aromatic quality that’s especially wonderful in spring and summer when fresh herbs are abundant.

Mediterranean Style: Give your baked chicken breast a Mediterranean twist by adding 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, ½ teaspoon of ground cumin, and a pinch of cinnamon to your seasoning mix. After baking, top with crumbled feta cheese, chopped Kalamata olives, and a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest for a vacation-inspired dinner.

Spicy Honey Glazed: For those who enjoy sweet heat, mix 2 tablespoons of honey with 1 tablespoon of hot sauce and brush this glaze onto the chicken during the last 5 minutes of baking. This creates a deliciously sticky, sweet-spicy exterior that caramelizes beautifully in the oven while maintaining the juicy interior of your oven baked chicken breast.

Storage and Serving

Properly stored, your Simple Oven Baked Chicken Breast will maintain its quality and safety for several days. Allow any leftover chicken to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken breasts for up to 3 months—wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

When reheating, do so gently to prevent the chicken from drying out. Cover the chicken with a damp paper towel and microwave on 60% power, or reheat in a 325°F oven covered with foil until just warmed through.

For serving, this versatile baked chicken breast pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables and a grain like quinoa or brown rice for a complete meal. Try slicing it for hearty salads or wraps for lunch the next day. For an impressive dinner, serve the chicken topped with a quick pan sauce made from white wine, chicken broth, and a pat of butter reduced in the same pan used to preheat any toppings.

FAQs

How do I know when my chicken breast is done cooking?
The most reliable method is using an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast—it should register 165°F (74°C). Visually, the juices should run clear, not pink, and the meat should be opaque white throughout.

Why is my baked chicken breast always dry?
Dry chicken usually results from overcooking. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy, ensure even thickness by pounding the breasts, and don’t skip the resting period after cooking. The olive oil coating also helps retain moisture in this Simple Oven Baked Chicken Breast recipe.

Can I use chicken with skin for this recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken with skin will add extra flavor and create a crispy exterior. If using skin-on chicken, place it skin-side up on the baking sheet and consider extending the cooking time by 2-3 minutes.

Is it necessary to bring the chicken to room temperature before baking?
While not absolutely necessary, allowing the chicken to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes promotes more even cooking. Cold chicken straight from the refrigerator often cooks unevenly, with the outside potentially overcooking before the inside reaches the proper temperature.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Yes! You can season the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. This actually allows the flavors to penetrate the meat more deeply. Just bring it to room temperature for 15 minutes before baking.

Conclusion

This Simple Oven Baked Chicken Breast is comfort food at its finest — straightforward, reliable, and endlessly adaptable to whatever flavors you’re craving. It’s the kind of dish that solves the “what’s for dinner” dilemma on busy weeknights while still delivering restaurant-worthy results. With just a few minutes of hands-on preparation, you can create a protein-packed centerpiece that pairs with virtually any side dish. Master this fundamental cooking technique, and you’ll always have a delicious, healthy meal option in your culinary arsenal. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for one, this foolproof method for juicy, flavorful chicken breasts will serve you well for years to come.

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