Are you tired of dry, flavorless chicken breast? Say goodbye to bland dinners and welcome the perfect oven baked chicken breast into your life. This recipe guarantees juicy, tender meat every time. Perfect as a standalone dish or as a protein-rich addition to salads and sandwiches, this chicken will become your new go-to recipe. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 lemon, sliced
Equipments
- Baking sheet
- Meat thermometer
How to Make Perfectly Juicy Oven Baked Chicken Breast – Step By Step
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Before you begin, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). A well-preheated oven ensures that your chicken breast cooks evenly and quickly, preventing it from drying out. Preparing your workspace also helps in having a smooth cooking flow.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Breasts
Place the chicken breasts on a clean surface. Cover them with parchment paper and use a meat mallet to pound them evenly. This process tenderizes the meat and ensures uniform cooking. Aim for an even thickness across the pieces.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and oregano. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken breasts, then rub the seasoning evenly on both sides to ensure maximum flavor in every bite.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the seasoned chicken breasts on it. Arrange lemon slices around and on top of the chicken to infuse a citrusy aroma. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Step 5: Rest the Chicken
After baking, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This rest period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it succulent and juicy.
How to Serve Perfectly Juicy Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Pair your juicy oven baked chicken breast with steamed vegetables, a fresh garden salad, or even sliced into wraps. The lemony, well-seasoned flavor complements a variety of side dishes.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
To ensure success, always use a meat thermometer for accurate temperature. Adjust seasonings to your taste or add a spicy kick with cayenne pepper. For extra moisture, brining the chicken for 30 minutes ahead of time can be beneficial.
Pumped Up Protein: Double the Delight!
For those seeking a high-protein version of this recipe, consider adding a layer of sliced almond crust for texture and nutrition. Almonds not only boost the protein content but also add a delightful crunch that complements the tender chicken.
Low-Carb Deliciousness: Perfect for Keto
If you’re watching your carb intake, this oven baked chicken breast recipe fits seamlessly into a low-carb diet. Serve it with sides like roasted Brussels sprouts or cauliflower rice to keep your meal both satisfying and in alignment with your diet goals.
Storage Instructions
Store cooled chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
How do I keep my chicken breast from drying out? Make sure not to overcook it, use a meat thermometer for accuracy, and bake under high heat to lock in juices.
Can I marinate the chicken overnight? Yes, marinating overnight will infuse additional flavors and keep it tender as well.
Can I use chicken thighs instead? Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and will work well with slightly adjusted cooking times.
What’s the best way to reheat baked chicken? Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to retain moisture or use a microwave with a damp paper towel covering the chicken to prevent drying.
Can I use fresh herbs? Certainly. Fresh herbs can enhance the flavor profile; consider using thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch.
Conclude with Love: Your Turn to Try and Share!
This perfectly juicy oven baked chicken breast is sure to become a staple in your weekly dinner routine. Easy, quick, and irresistibly delicious, it is a recipe worth sharing! Let us know how it turns out for you, and don’t forget to share your culinary creations on social media with your friends and family.
Perfectly Juicy Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- boneless skinless chicken breasts
- olive oil
- salt
- black pepper
- garlic powder
- onion powder
- paprika
- dried oregano
- lemon
Instructions
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cover chicken breasts with parchment paper, pound to even thickness.
- Mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and oregano.
- Drizzle olive oil over chicken and rub seasoning mix on both sides.
- Place chicken on baking sheet with lemon slices, bake 20-25 minutes.
- Let chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.