Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for Baked Chicken Breast that’s juicy, tender, and full of flavor:
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano (optional)
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them cook more evenly and results in a better texture.
- Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
3. Season the Chicken:
- Drizzle the chicken breasts with olive oil, making sure they are coated evenly on both sides.
- Sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper on both sides of the chicken.
- Gently rub the seasoning into the chicken to ensure it’s well coated.
4. Bake the Chicken:
- Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer. The cooking time will vary slightly depending on the size and thickness of the chicken breasts.
- If you prefer a slightly crispy top, you can broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
5. Rest the Chicken:
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
6. Serve:
- Slice the chicken against the grain and serve with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for extra flavor.
Tips:
- If you have thicker chicken breasts, you can butterfly them or gently pound them to an even thickness to ensure even cooking.
- For added flavor, marinate the chicken in the olive oil and seasonings for 30 minutes to a few hours before baking.
- This baked chicken is perfect for serving with sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a simple salad.
Enjoy your Baked Chicken Breast — a healthy, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal!