How to Bake Chicken Breasts

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked chicken breasts are a versatile, healthy, and easy main dish perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. When cooked properly, they are juicy, tender, and full of flavor. With a simple seasoning blend and proper technique, you’ll have a go-to protein that pairs well with virtually any side dish.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

boneless skinless chicken breastsolive oilgarlic powderonion powdersmoked paprikadried oreganosaltblack pepper

directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to help the seasoning stick.

Place the chicken in the baking dish and brush both sides with olive oil.

In a small bowl, mix together garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper.

Sprinkle the seasoning blend evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.

Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing or serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.Preparation time: 10 minutesBaking time: 20-25 minutesResting time: 5 minutesTotal time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

Add lemon slices on top for a citrusy finish.

Substitute the seasoning with Cajun, Italian, or BBQ spice blends for different flavor profiles.

Stuff the chicken breasts with cheese and spinach before baking for a more filling dish.

Marinate the chicken in yogurt or buttermilk beforehand for extra tenderness.

storage/reheating

Store baked chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months.To reheat, microwave in 30-second intervals or warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven until heated through.

FAQs

How do I keep baked chicken breasts from drying out?

Avoid overbaking, use a meat thermometer, and let the chicken rest before slicing.

Can I use bone-in chicken breasts?

Yes, but they will need a longer baking time—about 35-45 minutes depending on size.

Should I cover the chicken while baking?

No, baking uncovered helps the chicken develop a flavorful crust.

What’s the best internal temperature for chicken?

165°F (74°C) is the safe and optimal temperature for juicy chicken.

Can I marinate the chicken before baking?

Absolutely. Marinating adds extra flavor and tenderness.

Is it necessary to pound the chicken breasts?

Pounding them to an even thickness ensures they cook evenly and don’t dry out.

Can I bake frozen chicken breasts?

It’s best to thaw them first, but you can bake from frozen—just increase the baking time and check the temperature.

Can I cook vegetables with the chicken?

Yes, add quick-cooking veggies like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers to the baking dish.

What sides go well with baked chicken?

Try rice, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes, it stores and reheats well, making it ideal for prepping ahead.

Conclusion

Baking chicken breasts is a simple yet reliable way to create a flavorful, healthy meal with minimal effort. Perfectly seasoned and oven-cooked to juicy perfection, this dish can be customized endlessly to suit your taste. Whether for a family dinner or weekly meal prep, it’s a staple recipe worth mastering.

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