Baked chicken breast is a versatile and healthy dish that can be enjoyed on its own or used in a variety of recipes. This simple recipe yields tender, juicy chicken breasts with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this baked chicken breast recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients for Easy Baked Chicken Breast
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh herbs (such as thyme or rosemary), for garnish (optional)
How to Make Easy Baked Chicken Breast
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better and promotes even cooking.
- Drizzle olive oil over the chicken breasts and rub it evenly over both sides.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
- In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over both sides of the chicken breasts, rubbing it in to ensure even coverage.
Step 3: Bake the Chicken
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, and serve hot.
About the Main Ingredients
Chicken Breast
Chicken breast is a lean protein source that is low in fat and high in protein, making it a healthy choice for many diets. It is also a versatile ingredient that can be cooked in a variety of ways, including baking, grilling, and sautéing. Chicken breast is a blank canvas that can take on any flavors you desire, making it perfect for a wide range of recipes.
Olive Oil
Olive oil is used to coat the chicken breasts before seasoning. It adds moisture to the chicken and helps the seasonings stick. Olive oil is also a healthy fat that is rich in antioxidants and monounsaturated fats.
Seasonings
The seasonings used in this recipe add flavor and depth to the chicken breasts. Garlic powder and onion powder provide savory notes, while smoked paprika adds a subtle smokiness. Salt and black pepper enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
By following this easy baked chicken breast recipe, you can create tender, juicy chicken breasts that are perfect for a quick and healthy meal. Serve them alongside your favorite sides or use them in salads, sandwiches, or wraps for a delicious and satisfying meal.
