Oven Baked Chicken Breast Recipe

If you’re tired of dry, bland chicken breasts, this Oven Baked Chicken Breast recipe is your solution. With just a few simple ingredients and some foolproof techniques, you can achieve juicy, flavorful chicken breasts every time. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers perfectly cooked chicken that’s versatile enough to pair with almost any side dish. Read on to discover the secrets to making moist and delicious oven-baked chicken breasts!

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What is Oven Baked Chicken Breast?

Oven Baked Chicken Breast is a healthy and easy way to cook chicken that turns out moist and flavorful every time. Chicken breasts are often considered tricky to cook because they can easily become dry if overcooked. However, when seasoned properly and baked at the right temperature, they can be incredibly juicy and tender. This recipe features a simple yet flavorful seasoning mix and some key techniques like brining and baking at a high temperature to lock in moisture. Oven-baked chicken breasts can be served on their own, sliced over salads, or used in a variety of dishes like sandwiches, wraps, and casseroles.

Ingredients List for Oven Baked Chicken Breast

Here’s a list of everything you’ll need to make perfect Oven Baked Chicken Breast:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Pound them to an even thickness for even cooking.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – For coating the chicken and helping the seasoning stick.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds a subtle garlic flavor.
• 1 teaspoon paprika – For color and a hint of smokiness.
• ½ teaspoon onion powder – Enhances the flavor of the chicken.
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano – Adds a touch of herb flavor.
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme – For a subtle earthy note.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper – For seasoning.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the chicken.
• Fresh parsley or cilantro – Optional, for garnish.

Ingredients List for the Brine (Optional)

To ensure your chicken breasts stay moist and flavorful, you can brine them before baking. Here’s a simple brine recipe:

• ¼ cup salt
• 4 cups warm water

Mix the salt and water together until the salt is dissolved. Let the chicken breasts brine for 15-30 minutes. This step is optional but highly recommended for the juiciest results.

Substitutions and Variations

Oven Baked Chicken Breast is a versatile recipe, and you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences. Here are some substitution and variation ideas:

• Spices: Feel free to switch up the seasoning based on your preferences. You can add smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or even lemon zest for a citrusy twist.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil can be added to the seasoning mix or used as a garnish for a more herbaceous flavor.
• Marinades: Instead of a dry rub, you can marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for extra flavor. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight, for the best results.
• Chicken thighs: If you prefer dark meat, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few extra minutes to cook through.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps to make juicy and flavorful Oven Baked Chicken Breasts:

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Baking at a higher temperature helps the chicken cook quickly and evenly, while locking in moisture.

1. Brine the Chicken (Optional):

• If you’re using the brine method, dissolve ¼ cup salt in 4 cups of warm water in a large bowl. Add the chicken breasts and let them sit in the brine for 15-30 minutes. After brining, rinse the chicken under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.

1. Season the Chicken:

• In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, black pepper, and salt. Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, then sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over both sides of the chicken.

1. Bake the Chicken:

• Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish or on a lined baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C).

1. Let the Chicken Rest:

• Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it even juicier.

1. Serve:

• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro if desired, and serve hot with your favorite side dishes.

How to Cook Oven Baked Chicken Breast: A Step-by-Step Guide

For quick reference, here’s a simplified version of the steps to make perfect Oven Baked Chicken Breast:

• Step 1: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Step 2: Brine the chicken (optional) for 15-30 minutes, then rinse and pat dry.
• Step 3: Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with a mix of garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
• Step 4: Bake the chicken for 18-22 minutes until it reaches 165°F internally.
• Step 5: Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking chicken breasts, a few common mistakes can lead to dry or overcooked meat. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Not pounding the chicken: If your chicken breasts are uneven in thickness, the thinner parts will cook faster, leading to overcooked edges. Pound the chicken to an even thickness for even cooking.
• Overcooking: Chicken breasts can dry out if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure you’re removing the chicken from the oven when it reaches 165°F.
• Skipping the resting period: Letting the chicken rest after baking is crucial. Cutting into it too soon can cause all the juices to escape, leaving you with dry chicken.
• Not using enough seasoning: Chicken breasts can be bland on their own, so be generous with the seasoning to enhance the flavor.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Oven Baked Chicken Breasts can be served in a variety of ways, depending on your meal. Here are a few ideas to make your dish shine:

• Serve with roasted vegetables: Pair your chicken breasts with a side of roasted vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts for a well-rounded, healthy meal.
• Over pasta or rice: Slice the chicken and serve it over pasta, rice, or quinoa with a drizzle of olive oil or a light sauce.
• In salads: For a light and refreshing meal, slice the chicken and serve it over a crisp salad with your favorite dressing.
• In sandwiches or wraps: Use the baked chicken in sandwiches, wraps, or pita bread with fresh veggies and a flavorful sauce like tzatziki, hummus, or aioli.

How to Serve Oven Baked Chicken Breast

Here are some serving suggestions to get the most out of your Oven Baked Chicken Breast:

• With a side of grains: Serve the chicken with brown rice, quinoa, or couscous for a balanced meal.
• With mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a comforting side that pairs perfectly with juicy chicken breasts.
• In tacos: Shred or slice the chicken and use it as a filling for tacos or burritos. Add fresh salsa, avocado, and cilantro for a delicious meal.
• On pizza: Slice the baked chicken and add it as a topping on homemade or store-bought pizza for a protein boost.

Presentation Ideas for Oven Baked Chicken Breast

Want to make your baked chicken breasts look extra appealing? Try these presentation tips:

• Slice diagonally: Slice the chicken breasts on a diagonal for a more professional presentation.
• Garnish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley, cilantro, or basil adds color and freshness to the plate.
• Drizzle with sauce: Finish the dish with a drizzle of olive oil, balsamic glaze, or a simple lemon-butter sauce for extra flavor and elegance.

Oven Baked Chicken Breast Recipe Tips

To ensure your Oven Baked Chicken Breasts turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Use a meat thermometer: This ensures the chicken is cooked to the perfect internal temperature of 165°F without overcooking.
• Brine for extra juiciness: Brining helps the chicken retain moisture, especially if you tend to overcook it.
• Rest before slicing: Always let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before cutting into it to preserve its juices.
• Cook at a high temperature: Baking at 425°F helps seal in moisture and gives the chicken a nice, golden color.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make Oven Baked Chicken Breast ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can bake the chicken breasts ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

Q: How do I keep baked chicken breasts from drying out?
A: Brining the chicken, baking at a high temperature, and using a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking are the best ways to ensure your chicken stays moist.

Q: Can I freeze baked chicken breasts?
A: Absolutely. Let the chicken breasts cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Q: What can I do with leftover baked chicken?
A: Leftover baked chicken can be used in a variety of dishes, such as salads, wraps, sandwiches, soups, or casseroles. You can also shred it and use it for tacos or enchiladas.

Conclusion

This Oven Baked Chicken Breast recipe is simple, versatile, and delivers juicy, flavorful chicken every time. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or making a quick dinner, this foolproof method will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen. With a perfectly seasoned, crispy exterior and a tender, juicy interior, these baked chicken breasts are perfect for pairing with your favorite sides, adding to salads or wraps, or enjoying on their own. Try this recipe today and elevate your weeknight chicken game!

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