Baked Chicken Breast Recipe
Introduction
Baked chicken breast is a simple, healthy, and flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. This recipe uses a blend of spices and olive oil to keep the chicken juicy and tender. With minimal ingredients and easy steps, it’s a go-to for any home cook.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon seasoned salt (or table salt)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a rimmed baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine the chicken breasts, olive oil, Italian seasoning, seasoned salt, paprika, and black pepper. Mix well to coat all pieces evenly.
- Step 3: Transfer the coated chicken breasts to the prepared pan and bake uncovered for 21 to 26 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Step 4: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest on a plate or cutting board for 5 minutes to retain its juices.
- Step 5: Slice the chicken breasts and drizzle with the pan juices before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the seasoning and olive oil mixture for 30 minutes before baking.
- Swap Italian seasoning with your favorite herb blend like rosemary or thyme for a different twist.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is perfectly cooked without drying out.
Storage
Store leftover baked chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven or microwave until heated through, being careful not to overcook to keep the chicken moist.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs can be used. They may require a slightly longer baking time and will generally be more moist and flavorful.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F. The chicken should also be white throughout with no pink remaining.
PrintBaked Chicken Breast Recipe
A simple and flavorful baked chicken breast recipe that delivers juicy and tender results. Perfectly seasoned with Italian herbs, paprika, and seasoned salt, this dish is easy to prepare and bake, making it an ideal healthy main course for any weeknight dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 21-26 minutes
- Total Time: 31-36 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon seasoned salt (or table salt)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Prepare a rimmed baking pan by lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Season Chicken: In a medium mixing bowl, place the chicken breasts and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle Italian seasoning, seasoned salt, paprika, and black pepper over the chicken. Toss thoroughly to evenly coat each breast with the seasoning blend.
- Bake Chicken: Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer on the prepared baking pan. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 21 to 26 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring the chicken is cooked through and safely done.
- Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the oven and transfer it to a plate or cutting board. Let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and tender.
- Serve: Slice the chicken breasts into pieces and drizzle with the pan juices or any remaining olive oil for extra flavor. Serve warm as a delicious, healthy main dish.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure proper doneness and avoid overcooking.
- Seasoned salt can be substituted with regular table salt if preferred.
- Let the chicken rest after baking to keep it juicy.
- Optional: Add garlic powder or lemon zest for extra flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keywords: baked chicken breast, healthy chicken recipe, easy baked chicken, oven baked chicken, Italian seasoned chicken, simple chicken dinner
