This oven-baked chicken breast is juicy, flavorful, and easy to make! Just season it up and pop it in the oven for a hassle-free dinner with minimal cleanup.
You know what’s great? It stays moist while cooking, and when it’s done, you can easily pair it with veggies or rice. I often make extra for tasty leftovers! 🍗✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work well, though they’ll take a few extra minutes to cook through.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds flavor and helps keep the chicken moist. You can substitute with avocado oil or melted butter for a different taste.
Garlic Powder: This adds a deep garlic flavor without the hassle of fresh garlic. Feel free to replace it with minced fresh garlic (about 2-3 cloves) if you prefer a fresher taste.
Paprika: Paprika gives a lovely color and mild flavor. If you want a bit of heat, smoked paprika or cayenne can be a great substitute.
Dried Oregano: This herb adds an earthy note. If you don’t have it, Italian seasoning or thyme could be nice alternatives.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Juicy and Flavorful?
The key to juicy chicken is in the marinade! You’ll want to coat your chicken well and let it absorb flavors. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Mix olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl to create a simple marinade.
- Pat the chicken dry. This step helps the marinade stick better.
- Let the chicken sit in the marinade for at least 15 minutes—longer if you have time, as this enhances the flavor.
- Always check for doneness with a meat thermometer; it should be at 165°F (74°C). Resting the chicken for 5 minutes before slicing allows juices to redistribute, making it even juicier.
How to Make Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Lemon slices (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This oven-baked chicken recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to cook. With resting time included, you’ll be enjoying your delicious chicken in about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, set your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s nice and hot when the chicken goes in. This helps to cook the chicken evenly and make it juicy!
2. Make the Marinade:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix it well to create a flavorful marinade. This will add lots of tasty seasoning to the chicken.
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. Then, place them in a baking dish. This helps the marinade stick better. You want them to be nice and dry for the best flavor!
4. Coat the Chicken:
Now, pour the marinade over the chicken breasts, making sure they’re fully coated. Use a spoon to help spread the marinade if needed. This is where all the flavor starts building up!
5. Add Lemon:
Squeeze the juice of one lemon right over the chicken. Then, place the lemon slices around and on top of the chicken for an extra burst of flavor while it bakes.
6. Bake the Chicken:
Put the baking dish in the oven and let the chicken bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). It’s important to use a meat thermometer if you have one!
7. Let it Rest:
Once it’s done baking, take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy. Don’t skip this step!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish your baked chicken with chopped parsley and serve warm. Don’t forget to add those lovely lemon slices on the side for a fresh touch. Enjoy your delicious oven-baked chicken breast!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it’s essential to thaw them first! The best method is to transfer them to the fridge and let them thaw overnight. If you’re in a hurry, place the chicken in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water until thawed. Always pat dry before marinating.
How Can I Adjust Cooking Time for Thicker Chicken Breasts?
If your chicken breasts are particularly thick, you may need to increase the baking time. Check the internal temperature after 25 minutes; if it hasn’t reached 165°F (74°C), continue baking, checking every few minutes. Alternatively, you can use a meat mallet to slightly pound them for more even cooking.
What Should I Do with Leftover Chicken?
Store any leftover baked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place it in the microwave or a skillet with a splash of water or chicken broth to keep it moist. You can also slice it and use it in salads or sandwiches!
Can I Use Different Herbs or Spices?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the marinade with your favorite herbs and spices. Thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning work great as alternatives. Just remember to keep your seasoning balanced to enhance the chicken’s flavor without overwhelming it!
