Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is foolproof and perfect for busy weeknights or batch cooking. It requires minimal ingredients and can be customized with your favorite spices. The key to success is baking the chicken at the right temperature and letting it rest so the juices stay locked in. Whether you’re eating it fresh from the oven or slicing it for leftovers, this method gives you consistently moist, well-seasoned chicken every time.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Optional: onion powder, Italian seasoning, or dried herbs
- Fresh parsley or lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
- Place chicken on a baking sheet or in a baking dish.
- Drizzle with olive oil and rub to coat evenly.
- Season both sides of each chicken breast with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and any additional herbs or spices.
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Marinate the chicken in lemon juice, herbs, or your favorite dressing for extra flavor.
- Coat with a thin layer of Dijon mustard and breadcrumbs for a crispy finish.
- Use different spice blends like Cajun, taco seasoning, or curry powder.
- Top with shredded cheese and bake for the last few minutes for a cheesy twist.
- Add sliced vegetables to the baking dish for a one-pan meal.
Storage/Reheating
Store baked chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist, or microwave in 30-second intervals.
Baked chicken breasts also freeze well. Slice or leave whole, store in freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
How do I keep chicken breasts from drying out in the oven?
Bake at a high temperature like 400°F and don’t overcook. Let the chicken rest after baking to retain moisture.
What temperature should chicken breasts be cooked to?
They should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.
Can I bake chicken from frozen?
Yes, but increase the baking time to 35–45 minutes and ensure it reaches 165°F internally.
Do I need to cover the chicken while baking?
No, baking uncovered helps the chicken develop a slightly golden surface.
How do I add flavor to plain chicken breasts?
Use spice blends, marinades, fresh herbs, citrus zest, or sauces after baking for added flavor.
Can I use bone-in chicken breasts?
Yes, adjust the baking time to 35–40 minutes depending on the size, and ensure it’s cooked through.
What should I serve with baked chicken?
It pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, salad, pasta, or steamed greens.
Can I meal prep with baked chicken?
Absolutely. Slice or dice and use in salads, sandwiches, wraps, bowls, or pasta throughout the week.
Why is my chicken tough?
Overcooking or skipping the resting period can lead to dry, tough chicken. Use a thermometer and let it rest before slicing.
Can I brine the chicken before baking?
Yes, a simple saltwater brine for 30 minutes to 1 hour helps keep the chicken extra juicy and flavorful.
Conclusion
Baked Chicken Breasts are a kitchen essential—easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and reliably delicious. With just a few ingredients and simple techniques, you can make juicy, flavorful chicken that works for any meal. Whether you’re cooking dinner for the family or prepping meals for the week, this go-to recipe delivers every time.
PrintBaked Chicken Breasts
Baked Chicken Breasts are a simple, healthy, and reliable recipe perfect for any meal. With a few seasonings and proper technique, they come out juicy and flavorful every time—ideal for dinners, meal prep, or adding protein to your favorite dishes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, Italian seasoning, or dried herbs
- Fresh parsley or lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
- Place chicken on a baking sheet or in a baking dish.
- Drizzle with olive oil and rub to coat evenly.
- Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and any additional herbs or spices.
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or lemon juice if desired.
Notes
- Brining the chicken for 30 minutes beforehand improves juiciness and flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to prevent overcooking.
- Letting the chicken rest after baking helps retain moisture.
- Great for meal prep—slice and store for use in various dishes throughout the week.
- Can be customized easily with different marinades or spice blends.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
