Easy Oven-Baked Chicken Breast Recipe
If you’ve ever struggled with dry, flavorless chicken breasts, you’re not alone. As a chef, I know how frustrating it can be to cook chicken breast that’s both tender and juicy. But don’t worry – with this easy oven-baked chicken breast recipe, you’ll have perfectly cooked, flavorful chicken every time. It’s simple, healthy, and perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Why Oven-Baked Chicken Breast?
Baking chicken in the oven is one of the easiest ways to cook it evenly without constantly checking the stove. Oven-baking locks in moisture and allows the flavors to penetrate the meat. Unlike pan-frying, it requires minimal oil and cleanup, making it a healthier and convenient option.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we start, here’s what you’ll need. I’ve included a shopping list so you can grab everything at once.
Shopping List:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or oregano/basil)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional: lemon slices for garnish
Recipe Card: Easy Oven-Baked Chicken Breast
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings |
| 10 min | 20–25 min | 30–35 min | 2 |
Ingredients:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp dried Italian herbs
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: lemon slices
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This helps them brown nicely.
Rub olive oil over the chicken breasts.
In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Remove from oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Optional: Garnish with fresh lemon slices before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions (Chef’s Tips)
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Always preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Baking chicken in a properly heated oven ensures even cooking and prevents the meat from drying out.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel. Moisture on the surface of the chicken can prevent browning. Rub olive oil over the chicken to help the spices stick and to keep the meat juicy.
Step 3: Season Well
Mix garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Don’t be afraid of salt – it helps enhance the flavor. Rub this spice mix generously on both sides.
Step 4: Baking
Place the chicken on a baking sheet. You can use parchment paper or a lightly greased tray. Bake for 20–25 minutes. Thicker chicken breasts may need a few extra minutes.
Step 5: Check Doneness
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internally. This guarantees it’s safe to eat while keeping it juicy.
Step 6: Rest Before Slicing
Resting allows the juices to redistribute through the meat, making it tender and moist. Slice after 5 minutes for best results.
Bonus Tips for Perfect Chicken Breast
Even Thickness: Pound the chicken to an even thickness so it cooks uniformly.
Marinate for Extra Flavor: For added taste, marinate in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for 30 minutes before baking.
Don’t Skip Resting: Cutting immediately after baking can cause juices to escape.
Add Veggies: Place sliced bell peppers, onions, or cherry tomatoes on the tray for a one-pan meal.
Meal Prep Friendly: Bake multiple breasts at once and store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Serving Suggestions
Oven-baked chicken breast is versatile:
Slice it for salads or grain bowls.
Serve with roasted vegetables and rice for a hearty dinner.
Add to sandwiches or wraps for a quick lunch.
Final Thoughts
This easy oven-baked chicken breast recipe is my go-to for busy nights or meal prepping. Juicy, flavorful, and simple – it’s a recipe that never fails. With just a few pantry staples and minimal prep, you’ll have a delicious, healthy meal in under 30 minutes.
Give it a try, and I promise you’ll never go back to dry, bland chicken again!