If you’ve been searching for a foolproof way to make juicy, flavorful chicken with minimal fuss, you are going to love this Easy Baked Chicken Breast Recipe. This dish transforms simple chicken breasts into a tender, aromatic meal loaded with smoky and savory spices, all baked to perfection in just about 20 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or looking for a reliable recipe to impress guests, this recipe offers a perfect balance of convenience and deliciousness that’s sure to become a household staple.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Easy Baked Chicken Breast Recipe lies in its straightforward and pantry-friendly ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, ensuring the chicken remains juicy and pleasantly seasoned.
- 4 chicken breasts (boneless skinless): Choose medium-sized pieces for the best balance of cooking time and tenderness.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps the spices cling to the chicken and promotes a beautiful caramelized exterior.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a warm, slightly smoky depth that makes the chicken captivating.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a mellow garlic aroma, enhancing every bite without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Introduces a subtle sweetness that complements the garlic and spices.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Offers just a hint of heat and complexity.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that brightens the flavor profile beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing out all the natural flavors and seasoning your chicken perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper (or to taste): Adds a gentle kick and balances the seasoning.
How to Make Easy Baked Chicken Breast Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Preheat
Start by taking your chicken breasts out of the fridge and letting them come closer to room temperature; this little step helps them cook evenly. Next, preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit, and move the rack to the upper third so the heat circulates just right for a golden finish.
Step 2: Mix the Spice Rub
In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This homemade rub packed with bold yet balanced flavors is what sets this easy baked chicken breast recipe apart from the ordinary.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts on a baking dish or a foil-lined baking sheet. Drizzle them with olive oil and rub it over each piece to ensure the seasoning sticks. Then, generously massage the spice rub all over the chicken using your hands. This hands-on step helps the flavors penetrate deeply and guarantees a tasty crust.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake the chicken uncovered for 18 to 20 minutes if you’re using medium-sized breasts. Smaller pieces might only need 15 minutes, while larger breasts could take a few extra minutes. The best way to confirm doneness is with an instant-read thermometer—aim for 160 degrees Fahrenheit, then let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to reach the safe internal temperature of 165 degrees. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken juicy and tender.
How to Serve Easy Baked Chicken Breast Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes instantly elevates your meal. Try topping your chicken with chopped fresh parsley, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan, or even a squeeze of zesty lemon juice just before serving. These simple touches brighten the flavors and add a lovely pop of color.
Side Dishes
The beauty of this Easy Baked Chicken Breast Recipe is its versatility, so pair it with your favorite sides! Steamed green beans, roasted vegetables, or a fresh garden salad are all fantastic options. For a heartier meal, creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice pilaf complement this chicken wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to turn this into a showstopper? Slice the chicken breasts thinly and layer them over a bed of mixed greens or quinoa. Drizzle with a balsamic glaze or your favorite dressing for an elegant yet simple presentation that looks and tastes gourmet.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the baked chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, they last about 3 to 4 days and maintain their flavor and moisture well.
Freezing
You can also freeze cooked chicken breasts for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the chicken in a covered dish in the oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit or microwave it on medium power to keep it from drying out. Adding a splash of chicken broth or water before reheating helps retain moisture.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken breasts for this recipe?
You can, but bone-in breasts generally require a longer cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked. This recipe is optimized for boneless skinless breasts for quick, even cooking.
What if I don’t have all the spices listed?
No worries! You can simplify the rub to just salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika for a tasty result. The key is balancing savory and aromatic spices that you enjoy.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The most reliable way is to use an instant-read thermometer. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit after resting to be safe and perfectly juicy.
Can I marinate the chicken beforehand?
While this recipe is designed for a quick prep, marinating the chicken for 30 minutes to an hour with the spices and oil can enhance flavor and tenderness even more if you have extra time.
Is this recipe healthy?
Absolutely! Using lean chicken breasts and minimal oil keeps it light yet satisfying. The seasoning adds maximum flavor without extra calories, making this an excellent choice for a nutritious meal.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about a perfectly baked chicken breast that’s juicy, flavorful, and effortless to make. This Easy Baked Chicken Breast Recipe combines simplicity with mouthwatering taste, transforming everyday ingredients into a crowd-pleaser. Give it a try—you’ll find it’s not only easy to prepare but also endlessly adaptable to your favorite flavors and sides. Happy baking, and enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
Easy Baked Chicken Breast Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Baked Chicken Breast recipe delivers juicy, flavorful chicken breasts with a simple homemade spice rub. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep, the chicken is baked uncovered at a high temperature for a perfectly tender and moist result every time.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
Spice Rub
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or as needed)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper (or to taste)
Instructions
- Prep Chicken and Oven: Remove chicken breasts from the fridge and let them come to room temperature for even cooking. Preheat the oven to 450°F and place the rack in the top third position.
- Mix Spice Rub: In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to create the spice rub.
- Coat Chicken: Place chicken breasts on a baking dish or a foil-lined baking sheet. Drizzle and rub olive oil over the chicken, then thoroughly coat each breast with the prepared spice rub, using your hands for even coverage.
- Bake: Bake the chicken breasts uncovered for 18-20 minutes (adjusting time for size variations) until an instant-read thermometer inserted in the thickest part reads 160°F.
- Rest: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute and raises the internal temperature to the safe 165°F. Slice or serve whole, optionally spooning pan juices on top for extra flavor.
Notes
- Allowing the chicken to come to room temperature avoids uneven cooking.
- Adjust baking time based on the size/thickness of the chicken breasts to prevent dryness or undercooking.
- An instant-read thermometer is recommended to ensure safe and perfect doneness.
- You can line the baking sheet with foil for easier cleanup.
- Leftovers can be stored refrigerated for up to 3 days.
