Oven Baked Chicken Breast

This Oven Baked Chicken Breast recipe is not only quick and easy but also bursting with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this dish delivers juicy chicken with a delightful seasoning blend that everyone will love. In just under 20 minutes, you can serve a meal that feels gourmet without the fuss. Whether paired with roasted vegetables or a refreshing rice pilaf, this chicken breast will become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: You can have this Oven Baked Chicken Breast ready in about 23 minutes, making it ideal for any busy schedule.
• Flavorful Seasoning: The unique blend of brown sugar, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning creates a deliciously sweet and savory profile.
• Versatile Side Options: Serve it with your choice of sides like roasted veggies or rice pilaf, allowing for endless meal combinations.
• Healthy Protein Source: Each serving packs 24 grams of protein, making it a nutritious choice for any diet.
• Minimal Cleanup: With just one baking sheet involved, cleanup is a breeze!

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, having the right tools is essential. Here are some must-have items for creating the perfect Oven Baked Chicken Breast.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Aluminum foil
• Meat mallet or rolling pin
• Small mixing bowl
• Instant-read thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even cooking surface for the chicken and makes transferring it to and from the oven easy.
• Meat mallet or rolling pin: Ensures chicken breasts are evenly pounded to guarantee consistent cooking throughout.
• Instant-read thermometer: Helps check doneness accurately to prevent overcooking while ensuring safety.

Ingredients

This foolproof, delicious Oven Baked Chicken Breast is coated in a simple yet complex flavorful seasoning mixture, baked to tender and moist perfection in less than 20 minutes!

Chicken Ingredients

• 4 (6 ounce) boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Seasoning Ingredients

• 1 & 1/2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt (cut back to 1/2 teaspoon if using table salt)
• 3/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Other Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
• Roasted vegetable and rice pilaf (for serving or choose your favorites!)

How to Make Oven Baked Chicken Breast

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F. Line your baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Pound the Chicken Breasts

Using a meat mallet or rolling pin:
1. Pound each chicken breast to slightly more than 3/4-inch thick at the thickest part.
2. Ensure all fillets are uniform in thickness for even cooking.

Step 3: Prepare the Seasoning Mixture

In a small mixing bowl:
1. Combine brown sugar, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, smoked paprika, pepper, and garlic powder thoroughly.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken Breasts

On the prepared baking sheet:
1. Place the chicken breasts down.
2. Drizzle olive oil over each piece and massage into both sides.
3. Generously sprinkle the seasoning mixture on both sides of the chicken breasts.

Step 5: Bake in the Oven

Transfer your seasoned chicken to the oven:
1. Bake for about 18 minutes until an instant-read thermometer reads 165 degrees F.
2. Remember that cooking times may vary based on size and thickness; I usually remove it when it hits 162 degrees F and let it rest on the pan.

Step 6: Let It Rest

Once removed from the oven:
1. Allow chicken to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing to lock in juices.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Pair with your favorite sides such as roasted vegetables or rice pilaf for a complete meal! Enjoy your delicious Oven Baked Chicken Breast!

How to Serve Oven Baked Chicken Breast

Oven Baked Chicken Breast is versatile and pairs well with various sides. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or enjoying a simple meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dish.

Pair with Roasted Vegetables

• Freshly roasted vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini add color and nutrition to your plate.

Serve with Rice Pilaf

• A light rice pilaf flavored with herbs complements the chicken and absorbs its juices beautifully.

Add a Side Salad

• A crisp green salad drizzled with vinaigrette balances the richness of the chicken, providing freshness.

Include Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes bring comfort to the meal, making it hearty and filling.

Wrap in Lettuce

• For a low-carb option, serve the chicken wrapped in lettuce leaves with your favorite toppings.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped fresh parsley or basil can enhance flavor while adding a pop of color to your dish.

How to Perfect Oven Baked Chicken Breast

To ensure your Oven Baked Chicken Breast turns out juicy and flavorful, follow these expert tips.

• Pound the Chicken Evenly: Ensuring all pieces are uniform in thickness allows for even cooking.
• Marinate for Extra Flavor: Letting the chicken sit in olive oil and spices for at least 30 minutes enhances its taste.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: This ensures you cook the chicken to the perfect internal temperature of 165 degrees F without drying it out.
• Let it Rest: Allowing cooked chicken to rest for five minutes before slicing helps retain moisture.
• Adjust Seasoning According to Taste: Feel free to tweak spices based on your preference or try new combinations for variety.

Best Side Dishes for Oven Baked Chicken Breast

Pairing side dishes with Oven Baked Chicken Breast can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Steamed Broccoli: A healthy choice that adds nutrients and vibrant color to your plate.
2. Quinoa Salad: Light and nutty, quinoa mixed with veggies provides a wholesome grain alternative.
3. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread offers a delightful crunch and is perfect for soaking up juices.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a seasonal touch that’s loved by many; grill or boil it for simplicity.
5. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness contrasts beautifully with savory chicken flavors.
6. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw adds texture and freshness, making it an ideal cold side contrast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make your Oven Baked Chicken Breast perfect, avoid these common mistakes.

• Skipping the pounding step: Not pounding the chicken can lead to uneven cooking. Always pound the chicken breasts to a uniform thickness for best results.
• Over-seasoning: While seasoning is important, using too much can overpower the dish. Stick to recommended amounts for balanced flavors.
• Not letting it rest: Cutting into the chicken right away can cause juices to escape. Allowing it to rest for about 5 minutes helps retain moisture.
• Ignoring internal temperature: Cooking without checking the temperature can lead to undercooked or overcooked chicken. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy, aiming for 165 degrees F.
• Using the wrong baking temperature: Baking at too low of a temperature may result in dry chicken. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F for juicy results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Oven Baked Chicken Breast

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating Oven Baked Chicken Breast

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F and bake covered for about 15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat; add a splash of water or broth and cover until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Oven Baked Chicken Breast.

How do I ensure my Oven Baked Chicken Breast stays juicy?

To keep your chicken moist, avoid overcooking it and allow it to rest after baking. This locks in moisture.

Can I marinate the chicken breast before baking?

Yes! Marinating adds flavor and moisture. Just ensure you don’t marinate too long, as acidic ingredients can break down the meat.

What sides pair well with Oven Baked Chicken Breast?

Roasted vegetables and rice pilaf are great options. Feel free to serve with your favorite sides like salads or mashed potatoes.

How do I know when my Oven Baked Chicken Breast is done?

Use an instant-read thermometer. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.

Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless?

Yes, but cooking times will vary. Bone-in chicken typically takes longer to cook, so adjust accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This Oven Baked Chicken Breast recipe is not only quick but also versatile, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. You can customize it with different seasonings or serve it alongside various sides to suit your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try—your taste buds will thank you!