Looking for a simple yet satisfying dinner? This oven-baked chicken breast recipe is a go-to for any weeknight meal. It’s quick to prepare and results in tender, juicy chicken that’s bursting with flavor. Just a handful of ingredients and a little bit of time in the oven, and you’ll have a delicious main dish that everyone will love!
What makes this chicken breast recipe a winner is its simplicity. With just a few seasonings, you can elevate the natural taste of the chicken, making it the perfect base for any side dish. Pair it with some roasted vegetables or a fresh salad, and you have a well-rounded dinner ready in no time.
Preparation Tips for Oven-Baked Chicken
To achieve perfectly cooked chicken breasts, start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures a golden brown exterior while keeping the meat juicy.
Before seasoning, pat the chicken breasts dry. This simple step promotes a nice sear and helps the seasoning adhere better. Once dry, coat the chicken with a blend of olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Seasoning for Flavor
The key to delicious oven-baked chicken lies in the seasoning. A mix of spices enhances the natural flavor of the chicken while providing mouthwatering aromas. Garlic and onion powders offer depth, while paprika adds a hint of smokiness.
Adjust the seasonings to your preference. Feel free to experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant kick. The right blend can transform an ordinary meal into something extraordinary.
Cooking Process
Once seasoned, place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
After baking, let the chicken rest for about five minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is as juicy as possible.
Accompanying Sides
Paired with roasted vegetables, oven-baked chicken breast becomes a balanced meal. Simple options like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers add vibrant colors and flavors to the plate.
Drizzle a little olive oil over the vegetables before roasting for added taste. Season them with salt and pepper to enhance their natural sweetness. Together, they complement the chicken beautifully.
Presentation Matters
Plating can elevate the dining experience. Arrange the chicken and vegetables artfully on a rustic wooden table for a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Garnish the chicken with fresh herbs like parsley or basil to add a pop of color and freshness. A simple knife and fork beside the plate complete the presentation, making it perfect for any dinner occasion.
Nutrition and Serving Suggestions
This oven-baked chicken breast recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. Each serving contains approximately 220 calories, 30g of protein, and just 10g of fat, making it a healthy option for various diets.
With a total prep and cook time of just 35 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Serve alongside a fresh salad for a light option or with grains like quinoa or brown rice for a heartier meal.
Delicious and Easy Oven-Baked Chicken Breasts
These flavorful chicken breasts are seasoned to perfection and baked until golden brown. The result is a juicy, tender chicken that’s both healthy and satisfying, making it perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them get a nice sear.
- Season: In a large bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat them thoroughly with the seasoning mixture.
- Bake: Place the seasoned chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 220kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 0g