Perfectly Baked Chicken Breast

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Consistently Juicy: Our specific cooking techniques are designed to keep the chicken moist and tender from the first bite to the last. We focus on methods that prevent overcooking, ensuring a succulent texture that delights the palate.
• Quick & Fuss-Free: Requiring minimal ingredients and just a few minutes of hands-on preparation, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when time is of the essence. You’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.
• Incredibly Versatile: This basic baked chicken recipe pairs beautifully with almost any side dish you can imagine – from steamed greens and mashed potatoes to rice pilaf and quinoa. It also makes excellent meal prep, providing a healthy protein source for lunches and dinners throughout the week.
• Easily Customizable: The simple seasoning blend acts as a fantastic canvas for endless flavor variations. Easily switch up the spices, herbs, or marinades to match your culinary mood or adapt to different global cuisines.

Key Ingredients for Perfect Baked Chicken

Achieving a truly delicious oven-baked chicken breast doesn’t require a long list of exotic ingredients. In fact, the beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Here’s a breakdown of the essential components that will transform ordinary chicken into an extraordinary meal:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast: The star of our dish! Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for ease of preparation and a leaner protein source. Before cooking, ensure you trim off any visible tendons or excess fat to guarantee a clean and pleasant eating experience.
• Butter (Salted Recommended): Butter is key for adding rich flavor and helping the chicken brown beautifully, contributing to that irresistible golden crust. Salted butter enhances the overall taste, but unsalted butter works too, just be sure to adjust your added salt accordingly. For a slightly lighter option or a different flavor profile, you can also use a combination of butter and olive oil or avocado oil.
• Minced Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides an aromatic depth that elevates the entire dish. Its pungent, savory notes infuse the chicken with incredible flavor. While fresh is always best for maximum impact, jarred minced garlic is a convenient alternative that still delivers great taste.
• Essential Seasonings: This foundational blend creates a balanced and savory profile that complements the chicken perfectly.
  • Paprika: Adds a hint of sweetness, a mild peppery note, and a beautiful reddish hue to the chicken.
  • Onion Powder: Contributes a subtle, savory onion flavor without the moisture or texture of fresh onion.
  • Garlic Powder: Reinforces the garlic flavor, ensuring it permeates the chicken evenly.
  • Salt: Crucial for seasoning the chicken from within, drawing out moisture and enhancing all other flavors.
  • Black Pepper: Provides a gentle kick and aromatic warmth, balancing the other seasonings.

With these simple, high-quality ingredients, you’re well on your way to baking chicken breasts that are anything but boring!

How To Make Tender and Juicy Oven-Baked Chicken Breasts: Step-by-Step

Follow these detailed steps to achieve perfectly cooked, flavorful chicken breasts every time. Precision in preparation is key to locking in moisture and ensuring even cooking.

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature when the chicken goes in, promoting even cooking from the start.
2. Flatten The Chicken for Even Cooking: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Using the flat side of a meat tenderizer (or a heavy glass jar), gently pound the thickest part of the breast until the chicken is an even thickness throughout. Aim for approximately 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick. This crucial step prevents the thinner edges from drying out while the thicker parts cook, guaranteeing uniform tenderness.
3. Prepare the Baking Pan: Lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes for easier cleanup. Arrange the flattened chicken breasts in a single layer in the prepared dish.
4. Infuse with Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with the minced garlic. Drizzle this fragrant mixture generously over both sides of the chicken breasts. The butter helps to crisp the exterior and keep the interior moist, while the garlic infuses deep, savory flavor.
5. Season Generously: In a separate small bowl, combine the paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to create an even blend. Sprinkle this seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts, ensuring a full coating for maximum flavor. Don’t be shy – a good layer of seasoning makes all the difference!
6. Bake to Perfection: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in your preheated oven. Bake for approximately 20-30 minutes. The exact cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of your chicken and your oven’s calibration. The most reliable way to determine doneness is by using an instant-read meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the breast; it should read an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius). This is the safe internal temperature for both white and dark chicken meat.
7. Rest for Juiciness: Once the chicken reaches 165°F, remove it from the oven. Spoon any accumulated butter and chicken juices over the meat. Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil and let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in an incredibly juicy and tender final product. Do not skip this step!
8. Slice and Serve: Before serving, slice the chicken breasts against the grain. This technique shortens the muscle fibers, making the chicken even more tender and easier to chew. Serve immediately with your favorite sides and enjoy your perfectly baked chicken!

Pro Tips for No-Fail Juicy Oven Baked Chicken Breast

Achieving consistently juicy and flavorful oven-baked chicken is easier than you think with these expert tips:

• Ensure Even Thickness: This is perhaps the most critical step. By pounding chicken breasts to an even thickness (about 1/2 to 3/4 inch), you ensure that all parts cook at the same rate. This prevents the thinner edges from drying out while the thicker center is still cooking, resulting in uniformly tender meat.
• Do Not Overbake: Overcooking is the number one culprit behind dry chicken. Start checking the internal temperature a few minutes before the minimum recommended cooking time. Remove the chicken from the oven as soon as your meat thermometer registers 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius). It will continue to cook slightly during the resting period.
• Always Let it Rest: Patience is a virtue, especially after baking chicken. Allow the chicken to rest, covered loosely with foil, for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices, which have been forced to the center of the meat during cooking, to redistribute throughout the entire breast, ensuring maximum juiciness.
• Invest in a Meat Thermometer: This small tool is your best friend for perfect chicken every time. An instant-read meat thermometer takes all the guesswork out of cooking, guaranteeing your chicken is perfectly done and safe to eat without being overcooked.
• Season Generously: Don’t be shy with your seasonings! A good coating of oil and your chosen spice blend on both sides of the chicken creates a flavorful crust and helps lock in moisture. The fat from the butter or oil also aids in heat transfer and contributes to browning.
• Slice Against the Grain: When it’s time to serve, use a sharp knife to slice your chicken against the grain. This technique cuts across the muscle fibers, making the chicken incredibly tender and much easier to chew, enhancing the overall eating experience.
• Consider a Quick Brine: For an extra layer of moisture and flavor insurance, consider a quick brine. Soaking chicken breasts in a saltwater solution for 15-30 minutes before seasoning can significantly enhance their juiciness and tenderness.

The cooking time for chicken breasts can vary significantly based on their size and thickness, as well as your oven’s calibration. The most reliable method is always to use an instant-read thermometer. Regardless of the cut or size, the chicken is safely cooked when its internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius). Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat, or for bone-in chicken, into the thickest part near the bone, avoiding the bone itself. Once it reaches 160-165°F, remove it from the heat and tent it with foil to rest. Here’s a general guide based on breast size (at 350°F and even thickness):
5-6 ounce breasts: 13-16 minutes
8-ounce breasts: 16-19 minutes
11-12 ounce breasts: 22-26 minutes

Absolutely! This versatile seasoning blend, made with pantry staples, works wonderfully with various cuts of chicken. It’s excellent for boneless chicken breasts, but you can also use it for bone-in chicken pieces, chicken thighs, or even a whole roasted chicken. Just remember to adjust your cooking time based on the size and thickness of the chicken cut, and whether it’s bone-in or boneless, always checking for an internal temperature of 165°F.

We’ve experimented with various temperatures to find the sweet spot for even cooking and tender results. Baking chicken breasts in the 350-375 degree Fahrenheit range typically yields the best outcome, promoting even cooking without drying out the meat too quickly. Higher temperatures can cook chicken faster, but increase the risk of dry edges. Keep in mind that the time required will still depend on the size and thickness of your chicken breasts. Here’s a general temperature and time guide:
350 degrees F (175 C): 30-35 minutes
375 degrees F (190 C): 25-30 minutes
400 degrees F (200 C): 22-25 minutes
425 degrees F (220 C): 18-22 minutes

The only reliable way to know if your chicken breast is fully cooked and safe to eat is by checking its internal temperature with an instant-read meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken, avoiding any bones. The chicken is done when the thermometer reads 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius). The juices should also run clear when pierced with a fork. Relying on visual cues alone, like color, can be misleading, so always use a thermometer for perfect results.

What to Make with Your Perfectly Baked Chicken Breasts

The beauty of this simple oven-baked chicken breast recipe lies in its incredible versatility. Once cooked, these juicy chicken breasts can be transformed into a myriad of delicious meals throughout the week:

• Effortless Meal Prep: Slice or dice the cooked chicken and portion it with your favorite roasted vegetables, rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for quick and healthy lunches or dinners. It’s perfect for fueling your busy week.
• Delicious Chicken Enchiladas: Skip the rotisserie chicken! Shred your oven-baked chicken to create incredibly flavorful green chicken enchiladas, a hearty and comforting family favorite.
• Quick French Bread Pizza Topping: Cut the chicken into small pieces and toss it with your favorite Alfredo sauce, homemade buffalo sauce, or classic marinara. Spread on French bread, add cheese, and bake for instant, gourmet pizza.
• Savory BBQ Taquitos: Shred the chicken, mix with your favorite BBQ sauce, and roll it into tortillas for delicious oven-baked BBQ taquitos. A fun and flavorful snack or light meal!
• Comforting Chicken Noodle Soup: Dice your leftover chicken and add it to a simmering broth with noodles and vegetables. This soup comes together in about 30 minutes, even quicker when using pre-cooked chicken.
• Hearty Chicken Spaghetti: This classic comfort food is perfect for using up leftover chicken breast. Combine it with spaghetti, a creamy sauce, and cheese for a satisfying weekday family dinner.
• Fresh Salads and Wraps: Cool the cooked chicken and slice it for a Caesar salad, a vibrant Cobb salad, or layer it into whole wheat wraps with fresh veggies and a light dressing for a healthy meal.
• Stir-Fries and Bowls: Chop the chicken and add it to your favorite stir-fry with colorful vegetables and an Asian-inspired sauce, or create nourishing grain bowls with roasted sweet potatoes, greens, and a drizzle of tahini.

The possibilities are truly endless when you have perfectly cooked chicken breasts on hand!

Easy Recipe Variations to Spice Things Up

This basic oven-baked chicken breast recipe is a fantastic starting point, but don’t hesitate to get creative with your seasonings and sauces! Here are some simple variations to keep your meals exciting:

• Lemon Herb Chicken: For a bright and zesty flavor, add the fresh zest of one lemon and a tablespoon of chopped fresh thyme or basil to your garlic butter mixture before drizzling over the chicken.
• Spicy Southwest Chicken: Give your chicken a kick by rubbing it generously with a blend of smoked paprika, chili powder, a pinch of cayenne pepper, and cumin. Serve with a side of avocado salsa.
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken: After drizzling with garlic butter and applying the standard seasonings, sprinkle a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken breasts before baking. The cheese will create a delicious, savory crust.
• Tangy BBQ Chicken: During the last 5-7 minutes of baking, brush your chicken breasts with your favorite barbecue sauce. The sauce will caramelize slightly, adding a sweet and smoky glaze.
• Sweet & Savory Honey Mustard Chicken: Marinate the chicken breasts for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) in a simple mixture of equal parts honey and Dijon mustard before baking. This yields a wonderfully balanced flavor.
• Mediterranean Inspired: Add dried oregano, a pinch of red pepper flakes, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before baking. Garnish with fresh parsley and a few Kalamata olives after cooking.
• Italian Herb Chicken: Mix in dried Italian seasoning, a touch of dried rosemary, and a dash of red pepper flakes with your existing spice blend. A sprinkle of fresh basil after baking would be a lovely touch.

Storing and Reheating Your Baked Chicken Breasts

Proper storage and reheating are essential to maintain the quality and safety of your cooked chicken. This allows you to enjoy your delicious oven-baked chicken for days to come!

• Storing Leftovers: Once the chicken has cooled completely, transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• To Reheat in the Oven: For best results and to prevent drying out, reheat leftover chicken in a preheated 350-degree Fahrenheit (175°C) oven. Place the chicken on a baking sheet, you may add a tablespoon of chicken broth or water to the pan and cover loosely with foil to retain moisture. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
• To Reheat in the Microwave: If you’re short on time, a small portion of chicken can be reheated in the microwave. Place it on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel to trap moisture, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can dry out the chicken.
• To Reheat in a Skillet: You can also slice the chicken and reheat it in a lightly oiled skillet over medium-low heat for a few minutes until warmed. This method is great for adding the chicken to stir-fries or warming it for sandwiches.

More Chicken Breast Recipes You’ll Love

Prep Time: 10 mins

Cook Time: 35 mins

Total Time: 45 mins

Yields: 6 servings

Ingredients

• 3 pounds chicken breasts
• 3 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 C).
2. Spray a 9″ by 13″ baking dish with nonstick cooking spray, then add the chicken breasts. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter and the minced garlic and drizzle it over the chicken, making sure to coat both sides.
3. In another small bowl, combine the paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix, then sprinkle the seasonings on all sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Bake in your preheated oven for 20-35 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 C).
5. Remove the chicken from the oven and spoon the cooking juices over the top of the chicken. Let the meat rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Video

Notes

• Storing Leftovers: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months.
• To Reheat: Reheat in a preheated 350 degree F (175 C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, reheat small portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes on high.

Nutrition

Calories: 230kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 32g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 111mg | Sodium: 613mg | Potassium: 582mg | Vitamin A: 410IU | Vitamin C: 2.6mg | Calcium: 14mg | Iron: 0.7mg

Disclaimer: Nutritional values were calculated using a third-party tool and are provided as an estimation only.

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

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