Why make this recipe
Oven Baked Chicken Breast is a simple and healthy way to prepare chicken. It is juicy, flavorful, and easy to make. You can serve it with various sides or use it in salads and wraps. This recipe is great for busy weeknights or meal prep, making it a versatile choice for any home cook.
How to make Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Ingredients :
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (6-8 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Lemon slices
- Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Directions :
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking dish.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Place them between plastic wrap and pound them to an even ¾-inch thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
- In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper until well blended.
- Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of each chicken breast. For enhanced flavor, marinate in a simple marinade for 30 minutes to 2 hours, then pat dry before seasoning.
- Place the chicken breasts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure the pieces are not crowded for even cooking.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part registers 165°F.
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with lemon slices and fresh parsley or cilantro if desired. Serve warm.
How to serve Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Oven Baked Chicken Breast can be served with a variety of sides. It goes well with roasted vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes. You can also slice it and add it to a salad or use it in a sandwich or wrap. Enjoy it warm or cold!
How to store Oven Baked Chicken Breast
To store leftover chicken, let it cool down and place it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
Tips to make Oven Baked Chicken Breast
- Make sure the chicken breasts are of even thickness for even cooking.
- Let the chicken rest before slicing; this helps keep it juicy.
- Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste.
- You can use other marinades to add different flavors.
Variation
You can switch up the seasoning by using different herbs or spices. Try adding cumin, chili powder, or even a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
FAQs
1. Can I use bone-in chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can, but bone-in chicken breasts will take longer to cook. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
2. What can I do if I don’t have olive oil?
You can substitute olive oil with other oils like avocado oil or vegetable oil.
3. Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight will enhance the flavor even more. Just ensure it is refrigerated during that time.
4. Is this recipe healthy?
Yes, this recipe is considered healthy as it is low in carbs and high in protein, especially when served with vegetables.
5. How can I add more flavor to the chicken?
You can add fresh herbs, citrus zest, or even a splash of vinegar to your marinade for extra flavor.
Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 4 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts (6-8 oz each)
- ¼ cup olive oil For seasoning and marinade
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Garnish
- Lemon slices For garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro For garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking dish.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Place them between plastic wrap and pound them to an even ¾-inch thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
- In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper until well blended.
- Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of each chicken breast. For enhanced flavor, marinate in a simple marinade for 30 minutes to 2 hours, then pat dry before seasoning.
Cooking
- Place the chicken breasts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure the pieces are not crowded for even cooking.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part registers 165°F.
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with lemon slices and fresh parsley or cilantro if desired. Serve warm.
