Looking for a foolproof way to cook juicy, flavorful chicken every time? This easy baked chicken breast recipe is a must-try! At Clara Cooks, we love simple and delicious meals that don’t compromise on taste, and this recipe delivers just that. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or need a quick and healthy dinner, this oven-baked chicken breast is your go-to solution.
Table of Contents
- Why This Baked Chicken Breast Recipe Works
- The Secret to Juicy Baked Chicken
- Best Seasoning for Oven-Baked Chicken
- How to Bake Chicken Breast to Perfection
- Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal
- Storage and Meal Prep Tips
- Key Takeaways
Key Takeaways
- This easy baked chicken breast recipe ensures juicy and tender chicken every time.
- Using a blend of spices and olive oil enhances the flavor and moisture.
- Perfect for meal prep, healthy dinners, or a quick protein boost.
- Customize the seasoning to suit your taste.
Why This Baked Chicken Breast Recipe Works
Baking chicken breasts in the oven is one of the easiest ways to get a healthy baked chicken recipe that’s both delicious and nutritious. Unlike pan-frying, baking ensures even cooking while keeping the chicken moist and tender. This method works well because it allows the flavors to absorb, and the heat gently cooks the meat without drying it out.
The Secret to Juicy Baked Chicken
If you’ve ever struggled with dry, bland chicken, the key is to use the right techniques. To achieve a juicy baked chicken, pat the chicken dry before adding the seasoning, coat it in olive oil, and bake it at a high temperature. Letting it rest for a few minutes before slicing also helps retain the moisture.
Best Seasoning for Oven-Baked Chicken
Seasoning is what makes this oven baked chicken breast recipe shine! A blend of garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, and oregano gives the chicken a well-balanced flavor that pairs beautifully with any side dish. Feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste.
How to Bake Chicken Breast to Perfection
The best way to bake chicken is to preheat the oven to 400°F, arrange the seasoned chicken on a lined baking sheet, and bake for 20-25 minutes. Using a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F ensures the chicken is perfectly cooked without overbaking.
Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal
This simple chicken breast recipe pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. For a low-carb option, serve it with cauliflower rice or steamed greens. The versatility of this dish makes it a staple for any meal.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
If you’re looking for a quick baked chicken dinner that you can prepare in advance, this recipe is ideal for meal prep. Store cooked chicken breasts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently to maintain juiciness. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months.
Easy Baked Chicken Breast Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
- Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Drizzle with lemon juice and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
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