Description
This Oven Baked Chicken Breast recipe offers a flavorful, juicy, and healthy way to prepare chicken breasts by seasoning them with a fragrant spice mix and baking to perfection. The method ensures evenly cooked, tender chicken with a golden-brown finish, ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 (6-ounce) boneless skinless chicken breasts
Seasoning Mix
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Pound the Chicken: Use a rolling pin or meat mallet to pound each chicken breast to an even thickness of about ¼-inch. This helps them cook evenly and remain tender.
- Prepare the Seasoning: In a large bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, oregano, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and olive oil. Mix well to form a flavorful coating.
- Season the Chicken: Place the pounded chicken breasts in the bowl with the seasoning mixture and toss thoroughly to ensure every piece is evenly coated with the spices and oil.
- Bake the Chicken: Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-17 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring they are fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Optional Broil for Color: For a more golden brown and slightly crispy exterior, broil the chicken on high heat for 2 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the oven and allow it to rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
- Serve and Garnish: Drizzle any pan juices over the chicken breasts and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving to enhance flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Ensure chicken breasts are pounded evenly to avoid uneven cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken reaches 165°F for safety.
- Broiling is optional but adds a nice golden finish.
- Leftover chicken keeps well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be used in salads or sandwiches.
- Adjust seasoning levels to taste or add a pinch of cayenne for some heat.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-17 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American