Baked Chicken Breasts Recipe

Juicy, Tender & Easy to Make

Let’s face it—cooking chicken can sometimes be a tricky task, but baked chicken breasts? Now, that’s a whole different story! If you’re searching for a recipe that guarantees juicy, tender, and flavorful chicken every time, then this Baked Chicken Breasts recipe is your new go-to. With a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a meal that’s not only satisfying but also nutritious and versatile.

Here’s the best part: this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something hearty yet easy to prepare. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, feeding the family, or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress. Plus, you won’t need to worry about dry, overcooked chicken—this recipe ensures a succulent result every single time!

For those who love chicken, but want something a little different, be sure to check out my Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken Thighs. Both dishes highlight the simplicity of cooking with fresh ingredients but with different flavor profiles. Ready to learn how to bake chicken like a pro? Keep reading for all the tips and tricks you need to make the perfect baked chicken breasts.

What is Baked Chicken Breasts?

When you hear the words Baked Chicken Breasts, you might imagine a simple, classic dish that’s quick to prepare but often lacking excitement. Well, let me tell you, this recipe is anything but boring! It’s not just about baking a chicken breast and calling it a day—it’s about baking it perfectly so it remains tender, juicy, and full of flavor.

But why do we call it “baked chicken”? It’s a straightforward process that involves seasoning the chicken, placing it in the oven, and baking it to perfection. Pretty simple, right? No fancy techniques, just pure flavor. It’s a dish that’s been a staple in many homes because of its versatility. You can customize it with different seasonings, serve it with a variety of sides, and know that you’ve got a healthy, satisfying meal.

As they say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach”—and this baked chicken breast recipe is just what you need to win over the hearts and taste buds of anyone you serve it to. So, grab your chicken breasts and let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Baked Chicken Breasts Recipe

Here are three reasons why this Baked Chicken Breasts recipe will quickly become a family favorite:

Juicy & Tender Every Time: By following the simple steps in this recipe, you’ll avoid the common pitfalls of dry chicken. The secret is in the seasoning and the baking method, which ensures the chicken stays tender and juicy on the inside while forming a golden, crisp exterior.
Easy & Quick: In just under 30 minutes, you can have a complete meal that looks like it took hours to prepare. It’s perfect for busy evenings when you need a wholesome meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. Plus, this recipe requires just a handful of ingredients that you likely already have on hand.
Customizable: The beauty of this recipe is that it’s a blank canvas for different flavors. Whether you’re in the mood for garlic and herbs, lemon and rosemary, or even a simple salt and pepper seasoning, this baked chicken is versatile enough to suit any flavor profile.

For a similar, yet flavorful twist, try out my Chicken Parmesan recipe. It’s another simple chicken dish, but with a delicious Italian flair. Now, if you’re ready for some perfectly baked chicken, let’s jump right into the recipe.

How to Make Baked Chicken Breasts

Quick Overview

Making Baked Chicken Breasts is easier than you might think! It’s all about seasoning the chicken, using the right temperature, and ensuring it bakes evenly to perfection. In about 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking, you can enjoy a juicy, tender chicken breast. The best part? You can make it as simple or as bold as you like with your favorite seasonings.

Key Ingredients for Baked Chicken Breasts

To get started, here’s what you’ll need for the Baked Chicken Breasts recipe:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (around 6 oz each)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tsp dried oregano or thyme (optional)
Lemon wedges (for garnish, optional)
Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

These ingredients are simple, but they work together to create the most delicious and tender chicken breasts. If you want to experiment, feel free to swap out seasonings or add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top during the last few minutes of baking for extra flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven is key to locking in moisture and getting a perfectly baked chicken breast.
Prepare the chicken breasts: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps the seasonings stick better and ensures a nice crispy texture.
Season the chicken: Rub each chicken breast with olive oil to coat it evenly. Sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), oregano, salt, and pepper. Make sure each side of the chicken is well-seasoned.
Bake the chicken: Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet or in a baking dish. Make sure there’s space between each chicken breast to allow for even cooking. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Rest the chicken: Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken tender and juicy.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for added freshness. Serve alongside your favorite sides and enjoy!

What to Serve with Baked Chicken Breasts

Baked chicken breasts are incredibly versatile, so they pair well with many sides. Here are a few ideas to create a balanced and delicious meal:

Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts add a hearty and nutritious touch to your meal.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the tender chicken for a classic, comforting meal.
Steamed Rice or Quinoa: For a light and healthy option, serve the chicken with steamed rice or quinoa, drizzled with a little olive oil or fresh herbs.
Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a crisp, refreshing contrast to the rich, savory chicken.

Top Tips for Perfecting Baked Chicken Breasts

Avoid Overcooking: The biggest mistake people make when baking chicken is overcooking it. Keep an eye on the internal temperature, and once it hits 165°F (75°C), take it out of the oven immediately.
Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfectly cooked chicken every time, invest in a meat thermometer. It’s the best way to avoid dry, overcooked chicken.
Rest the Chicken: Letting the chicken rest after baking allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist and tender.
Season Well: Don’t be shy with the seasonings! Chicken breasts are relatively mild in flavor, so make sure to season generously to infuse the chicken with flavor.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Storing: Store any leftover baked chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be careful not to overdo it, as it can dry out the chicken.

Freezing: If you have extra chicken, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and follow the reheating instructions above.

Recipe Schema Markup

Preparation Time: PT10M
Cooking Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT30M
Type of Recipe: Main dish
Cuisine: American
Keywords: baked chicken breasts, juicy chicken recipe, easy chicken, healthy chicken recipes
Recipe Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 220 calories per serving

Recipe Ingredients

Chicken breasts
Olive oil
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Smoked paprika
Oregano
Salt and pepper

Pros

Quick and easy
Tender and juicy
Versatile seasoning options

Cons

Requires attention to cooking time for perfect results
Needs a thermometer for accuracy

Recipe Instructions

Preheat, season, bake, rest, serve!

Enjoy your Baked Chicken Breasts—a perfect combination of simplicity and flavor that everyone will love. With just a few easy steps, you’ll have a juicy, tender chicken ready to pair with any side of your choice!, delicious, and nutritious meal!