Looking for the perfect, juicy, and flavorful chicken breast? Look no further! This oven-baked chicken breast recipe is simple, healthy, and yields tender, succulent chicken every time. Whether you're making a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this recipe is a go-to favorite. Packed with seasoning and cooked to perfection, you can enjoy this delicious chicken as a standalone dish or incorporate it into salads, sandwiches, or pasta.
Read on for the full recipe, step-by-step instructions, and tips to ensure you bake the juiciest chicken breast possible!

What is Oven Baked Chicken Breast?
Oven-baked chicken breast is a simple, wholesome dish where chicken breasts are seasoned and baked in the oven until they are cooked through. Unlike frying or grilling, baking chicken in the oven ensures a more even cooking process and can result in juicy, tender chicken if done right. This recipe features a balanced mix of seasonings and techniques to guarantee flavorful, moist chicken breasts with minimal effort.
Ingredients List for Oven Baked Chicken Breast
To make perfectly seasoned and juicy oven-baked chicken breasts, you'll need the following ingredients:
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to an even thickness)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or Italian seasoning)
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional, for added flavor and tenderness)
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Substitutions and Variations
This oven-baked chicken breast recipe is highly versatile, and there are plenty of ways to modify it to suit your preferences:
- Chicken cuts: If you prefer dark meat, you can use bone-in or boneless chicken thighs, though they may require longer baking times.
- Spices: Feel free to swap out the spices based on your flavor preferences. Use cumin, chili powder, or cayenne pepper for a spicier kick, or herbs like thyme and rosemary for a more earthy flavor.
- Lemon juice: You can substitute lemon juice with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar for similar tanginess that helps tenderize the chicken.
- Butter: For extra richness, you can brush the chicken with melted butter instead of olive oil.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil can be sprinkled on top before baking to infuse the chicken with more herbal aromas.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now, let’s dive into the detailed process of making the best oven-baked chicken breasts. Follow these instructions closely to ensure your chicken turns out juicy and full of flavor.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This higher temperature helps to lock in the moisture and create a nice, slightly crispy exterior on the chicken breasts.
Step 2: Pound the Chicken Breasts
- Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or inside a resealable plastic bag. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the thicker parts of the chicken breast to create an even thickness. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and prevents overcooking of thinner parts.
Step 3: Prepare the Seasoning Mix
- In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, oregano, pepper, and salt. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper if you want a touch of heat.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
- Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Drizzle the chicken with olive oil and rub it in with your hands to ensure even coverage. This will help the chicken stay moist while baking.
- Generously sprinkle the seasoning mixture over both sides of the chicken breasts, ensuring each piece is fully coated. If using lemon juice, drizzle a little on top for added flavor.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken
- Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the breasts. Thicker breasts may take a few minutes longer, while thinner ones will cook faster.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches 165°F (75°C) at the thickest part.
Step 6: Let the Chicken Rest
- Once the chicken is done baking, remove it from the oven and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Let the chicken rest for about 5-10 minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is tender and juicy.
How to Cook Oven Baked Chicken Breast: A Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s a summary of the cooking process to help you nail the perfect oven-baked chicken breast every time:
- Preheat the oven: Set it to 425°F (220°C) for a quick and efficient cooking time.
- Prepare the chicken: Pound to even thickness for uniform cooking.
- Season: Coat with olive oil and seasoning mix for bold flavors.
- Bake: Bake for 18-20 minutes, depending on thickness.
- Rest: Let the chicken rest after baking to lock in the juices.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your oven-baked chicken breast turns out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls:
- Skipping the pounding step: If the chicken breasts are uneven in thickness, the thinner parts may overcook and dry out while waiting for the thicker parts to finish cooking.
- Not using a thermometer: Relying on visual cues like color or texture alone can lead to overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Over-baking: It’s easy to leave the chicken in the oven for too long, which can make it dry. Keep a close eye on it and remove it from the oven as soon as it hits the right temperature.
- Skipping the rest time: Letting the chicken rest after baking is crucial for keeping the meat juicy. Cutting into it immediately can cause the juices to spill out, leaving you with dry chicken.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Oven-baked chicken breasts can be served in a variety of ways, and how you present it can elevate the dining experience.
How to Serve Oven Baked Chicken Breast:
- With roasted vegetables: Serve your chicken with roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts for a wholesome, nutritious meal.
- Over rice or quinoa: For a complete meal, pair the chicken with a side of rice, quinoa, or couscous. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice to enhance the flavors.
- On a salad: Slice the baked chicken breast and serve it on top of a crisp salad with greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and your favorite dressing for a light and healthy meal.
- With mashed potatoes: Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes for a comforting dinner.
Presentation Ideas for Oven Baked Chicken Breast:
- Slice the chicken diagonally for a more professional look, and fan the slices out on the plate.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze or chimichurri sauce to add visual appeal and extra flavor.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or basil for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve on a large platter with colorful sides like roasted vegetables or vibrant grains to make the dish look more inviting.
Oven Baked Chicken Breast Recipe Tips
- Marinate for extra flavor: If you have time, marinate the chicken breasts in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for 1-2 hours before baking. This adds even more flavor and tenderness.
- Don’t skip the oil: Olive oil plays a crucial role in keeping the chicken moist and helping the seasoning stick, so don’t omit it.
- Try brining: For extra juicy chicken, you can brine the breasts in a mixture of water, salt, and sugar for 30 minutes to an hour before baking.
- Make ahead: Bake the chicken breasts in advance and store them in the refrigerator. They’re great for meal prepping and can be used in various dishes throughout the week.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does it take to bake chicken breasts at 425°F?
On average, boneless, skinless chicken breasts will take 18-20 minutes to bake at 425°F. However, always use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
Should I cover the chicken while baking?
You don’t need to cover the chicken while baking it at this temperature. The olive oil coating helps keep it moist. However, if you prefer a softer texture, you can cover the chicken loosely with foil.
Can I use bone-in chicken breasts?
Yes, but the cooking time will be longer, approximately 25-30 minutes, depending on the size of the breasts. Again, make sure to check the internal temperature for doneness.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover baked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chicken in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to retain moisture.
Conclusion
With this easy oven-baked chicken breast recipe, you’ll have perfectly cooked chicken that’s juicy, tender, and flavorful every time. Whether you're looking to prepare a quick dinner or meal prep for the week, this recipe is a surefire way to achieve restaurant-quality chicken at home. Serve it with your favorite sides, and enjoy the versatile flavors that can fit into any meal. Try it out today and make juicy oven-baked chicken a staple in your home!
PrintOven Baked Chicken Breast Recipe
Oven-baked chicken breasts are a simple yet delicious dish, perfect for a quick and healthy dinner. With minimal prep and a few basic seasonings, this recipe results in tender, juicy chicken every time. Serve alongside roasted vegetables, salad, or your favorite sides for a well-rounded meal. It's ideal for meal prep or a weeknight dinner.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken and rub it to coat evenly.
- In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle the seasoning evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
- Bake the chicken for 18-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with lemon wedges if desired.
Notes
- Resting the chicken after baking allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken more tender.
- Pair with roasted veggies, rice, or salad for a balanced meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 420mg
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