The Oven Baked Chicken Breast is an easy and delicious main dish that fits perfectly into any meal plan. With its juicy texture and flavorful seasoning, this recipe is ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or even special occasions. The chicken comes out tender and succulent every time, making it a go-to recipe for anyone looking to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This recipe requires only 10 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Seasoning: A blend of spices and herbs ensures every bite is packed with taste.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it with sides like rice, salad, or vegetables for a complete meal.
- Healthy Option: Low in carbs and high in protein, this chicken breast recipe fits well into various diets.
- Simple Cooking Method: Baking ensures even cooking and less mess compared to frying.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making your oven baked chicken breast, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×13 inch casserole dish
- Plastic wrap
- Rolling pin or meat mallet
- Small mixing bowl
- Meat thermometer
Importance of Each Tool
- Casserole dish: A sturdy dish provides even heat distribution, essential for cooking chicken to perfection.
- Plastic wrap: Helps flatten the chicken breasts easily without making a mess.
- Meat thermometer: Ensures your chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F.
Ingredients
This is the best way to make oven baked chicken breast: The chicken is generously seasoned, then bakes to juicy perfection!
For the Chicken
- 2 pounds chicken breast (boneless and skinless)
For the Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon ground paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
For Topping
- 1 tablespoon butter (diced)
How to Make Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Step 1: Prep the Oven
Heat your oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Flatten the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap. Using a rolling pin or the flat side of a mallet, pound the chicken to about 0.5 – 0.75 inch thickness. Rub olive oil all over the flattened chicken breasts.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
In a small bowl, combine all remaining ingredients except for butter. Mix well and sprinkle this seasoning mixture all over the chicken. Lightly rub it in for maximum flavor.
Step 4: Bake Your Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken in your prepared casserole dish. Top each piece with a slice of butter for extra richness. Bake at 400°F until the internal temperature reaches 165°F; this should take approximately 18-20 minutes. For a nice golden finish, broil for an additional 1-3 minutes before serving immediately.
Now you have a simple yet delightful oven baked chicken breast that is sure to please everyone at your table! Enjoy!
How to Serve Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Oven baked chicken breast is versatile and can be paired with various sides and sauces to elevate your meal. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
With Fresh Salads
- Caesar Salad – A classic choice, this salad adds crisp romaine and creamy dressing, perfectly complementing the juicy chicken.
- Greek Salad – This refreshing option features tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean flair.
- Spinach Salad – Combine fresh spinach with nuts and berries for a nutritious side that balances the flavors of baked chicken.
With Sauces
- Creamy Garlic Sauce – Drizzle this rich sauce over your chicken for an extra layer of flavor.
- BBQ Sauce – A tangy barbecue sauce pairs well, adding sweetness and smokiness to the dish.
- Honey Mustard Dressing – This sweet and tangy dressing enhances the chicken’s flavor while offering a delightful contrast.
On Sandwiches
- Chicken Sandwich – Slice the baked chicken breast and serve it in a toasted bun with lettuce, tomatoes, and mayonnaise for a satisfying sandwich.
- Wraps – Roll sliced chicken in a tortilla with veggies and dressing for an easy-to-eat wrap option.
How to Perfect Oven Baked Chicken Breast
To ensure your oven baked chicken breast turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use a Meat Thermometer – Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
- Let It Rest – Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after baking. This helps retain juices for more flavor.
- Pound Evenly – Ensuring uniform thickness while flattening helps the chicken cook evenly.
- Marinate Overnight – For added flavor, marinate the seasoned chicken in the fridge overnight before baking.
- Experiment with Spices – Feel free to adjust spices or add new ones based on your taste preferences.
- Broil for Crispiness – Finish under the broiler for a few minutes to achieve a golden-brown crust.
Best Side Dishes for Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Pairing your oven baked chicken breast with delicious side dishes can make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some great options to consider.
- Steamed Vegetables – Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans offer a healthy, colorful addition.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side that complements chicken well.
- Rice Pilaf – A fragrant rice dish mixed with herbs adds texture and flavor next to your main course.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes – The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes provides a delightful contrast to savory chicken.
- Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw brings freshness and tanginess, enhancing the overall meal experience.
- Quinoa Salad – Nutty quinoa mixed with vegetables serves as a wholesome side that pairs nicely with oven baked chicken.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many home cooks make simple mistakes when preparing oven baked chicken breast. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them:
- seasoning: Skipping seasoning or not using enough can lead to bland chicken. Ensure you generously season your chicken with spices before baking.
- temperature errors: Baking at the wrong temperature can result in undercooked or overcooked chicken. Always preheat your oven to 400°F for optimal results.
- uneven thickness: Not flattening the chicken breasts can cause uneven cooking. Use a rolling pin to pound the chicken to an even thickness.
- ignoring resting time: Cutting into the chicken right after baking can let all the juices escape. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- neglecting the broiler: Failing to use the broiler at the end can leave your chicken without a nice golden color. Broil for a couple of minutes for that perfect finish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cooked chicken in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Oven Baked Chicken Breast
- Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
- Frozen, it will maintain quality for up to 4 months.
Reheating Oven Baked Chicken Breast
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making oven baked chicken breast:
How do I ensure my Oven Baked Chicken Breast stays juicy?
To keep your chicken juicy, be sure not to overbake it. Use a meat thermometer and remove it from the oven once it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Can I use frozen chicken breast for this recipe?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw frozen chicken breast in the refrigerator overnight before following the recipe. Cooking from frozen may require additional cooking time.
What sides pair well with Oven Baked Chicken Breast?
Oven baked chicken breast goes well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. Feel free to customize based on your preferences!
How can I add flavor variations to Oven Baked Chicken Breast?
You can experiment with different spices and marinades such as barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or lemon herb blends for varied flavors.
Final Thoughts
This oven baked chicken breast recipe is simple yet incredibly satisfying. It’s versatile enough for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite spices or sides; you won’t be disappointed!
Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Oven Baked Chicken Breast is a simple yet mouthwatering dish that delivers juicy, tender chicken every time. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this recipe boasts a blend of flavorful seasonings that elevate the taste without requiring hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or hosting a family dinner, this dish can be served alongside fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or your favorite grains for a well-rounded meal. With just 10 minutes of prep and minimal cleanup, you’ll have a delicious main course that impresses without the stress.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately four people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon ground paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon butter (diced)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish.
- Place chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap and pound to an even thickness of about 0.5 – 0.75 inches. Rub with olive oil.
- In a small bowl, mix remaining ingredients (excluding butter) and sprinkle over the chicken, rubbing it in for extra flavor.
- Arrange seasoned chicken in the casserole dish, topping each piece with butter. Bake for 18-20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F; broil for an additional 1-3 minutes for a golden finish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 49g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
