If you’ve ever wondered how to make perfectly juicy and tender oven-baked chicken breasts, look no further. Chicken breasts can often turn out dry and bland, but with the right technique and seasonings, you can achieve tender, flavorful results every time. This Oven-Baked Chicken Breast Recipe is simple, quick, and perfect for meal prepping, weeknight dinners, or even as a protein-packed addition to your salads and pastas.
Follow along for tips and tricks on how to keep your chicken moist and flavorful, along with step-by-step instructions and helpful variations to customize your chicken to your liking.
What is Oven-Baked Chicken Breast?
Oven-baked chicken breast is a classic and healthy way to cook chicken. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are seasoned and baked at the perfect temperature to lock in moisture while creating a delicious outer crust. Baking is an easy, hands-off cooking method that allows you to infuse the chicken with whatever flavors you like, and it’s versatile enough to use in salads, sandwiches, or as the star of a main dish.
Ingredients List for Oven-Baked Chicken Breast
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this juicy oven-baked chicken breast:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme (or your favorite dried herbs like oregano or rosemary)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for extra flavor)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Substitutions and Variations
This recipe is simple and adaptable, so feel free to customize it to suit your taste:
- Seasonings: Swap out the paprika, garlic powder, and thyme for Italian seasoning, Cajun seasoning, or a simple combination of salt, pepper, and lemon zest for a different flavor profile.
- Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning mix if you like a little heat.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley work well for a more aromatic flavor. You can also experiment with dill, basil, or cilantro.
- Citrus: Lemon or lime juice adds a bright, tangy flavor. You can even add lemon zest for more citrusy freshness.
- Butter instead of olive oil: If you prefer a richer flavor, swap the olive oil for melted butter before baking.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s break down how to make perfect oven-baked chicken breasts, step by step:
1. Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
2. Prepare the chicken breasts
Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board. If the chicken breasts are uneven in thickness, use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound them to an even thickness—this ensures they cook evenly and stay juicy.
3. Season the chicken
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Brush or rub the mixture all over the chicken breasts, making sure they are evenly coated on both sides. If you’re using lemon juice, drizzle it over the chicken breasts at this point.
4. Arrange on the baking sheet
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are spaced out so they cook evenly. You can add some lemon slices on top of or around the chicken for extra flavor.
5. Bake the chicken
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, depending on the size of your chicken breasts. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature at the thickest part of the chicken breast.
6. Rest the chicken
Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring the chicken stays juicy.
7. Garnish and serve
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or herbs of your choice. Slice the chicken breasts and serve with your favorite sides, or use them in salads, wraps, or pasta dishes.
How to Cook Oven-Baked Chicken Breast: A Step-by-Step Guide
For perfectly baked chicken breasts every time, here are a few important tips to keep in mind:
- Pound to even thickness: Pounding the chicken to an even thickness ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and prevents the thinner parts from drying out.
- Season generously: Chicken breasts can be bland on their own, so be sure to use a generous amount of seasoning. Don’t be afraid to try different spices, herbs, and marinades.
- Don’t overcook: Overcooked chicken becomes dry and tough. The best way to ensure perfectly cooked chicken is by using a meat thermometer. Check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe and juicy chicken.
- Let it rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking helps the juices redistribute, resulting in tender, juicy chicken.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not pounding the chicken: If your chicken breasts are uneven in thickness, the thinner parts may overcook while the thicker parts remain undercooked. Pounding the chicken to an even thickness helps avoid this issue.
- Overcooking the chicken: The most common mistake is overcooking, which leads to dry, chewy chicken. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, and remove the chicken from the oven as soon as it reaches 165°F.
- Skipping the resting step: Cutting into the chicken immediately after baking can cause the juices to run out, leaving the meat dry. Always let the chicken rest before slicing.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Oven-baked chicken breasts are versatile and can be served in many ways. Here are some ideas for serving:
- Pair with veggies: Serve the chicken alongside roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or asparagus for a healthy, balanced meal.
- Over salads: Slice the chicken and serve it over a fresh green salad with your favorite dressing for a light and nutritious meal.
- With grains: Serve the chicken over rice, quinoa, or couscous, and drizzle any remaining pan juices over the top for extra flavor.
- In wraps or sandwiches: Slice or shred the baked chicken and use it in wraps, sandwiches, or quesadillas for a quick and easy meal.
How to Serve Oven-Baked Chicken Breast
Here are a few more serving ideas to elevate your baked chicken:
- Top with sauce: Drizzle the chicken with a flavorful sauce like garlic butter, chimichurri, or pesto for added flavor.
- Serve over pasta: Serve the baked chicken over pasta with a creamy Alfredo or tomato-based sauce.
- Slice and serve with dips: For a casual meal, slice the chicken into strips and serve with dips like honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch.
Presentation Ideas for Oven-Baked Chicken Breast
To make your chicken breast look as good as it tastes, try these presentation ideas:
- Garnish with herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley, basil, or thyme adds a pop of color and a touch of elegance.
- Serve with lemon slices: Place a few lemon wedges or slices around the chicken on the serving platter for a fresh, vibrant presentation.
- Cut on the bias: Slice the chicken breast at an angle for a more visually appealing presentation when serving.
Oven-Baked Chicken Breast Recipe Tips
- Make it ahead: You can season the chicken breasts and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat for a more flavorful result.
- Meal prep: Baked chicken breasts are great for meal prep. Cook a batch and use them throughout the week in salads, sandwiches, or grain bowls.
- Leftovers: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or slice cold chicken for use in salads or sandwiches.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long should I bake chicken breasts in the oven?
The baking time will vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken breasts. For 6-8 oz chicken breasts, bake at 400°F for 18-22 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts. They may need a few extra minutes of cooking time since they are slightly fattier and thicker. Check for an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure they’re fully cooked.
How do I keep chicken breast moist in the oven?
To keep chicken breasts moist, use a high cooking temperature (400°F), season generously, and avoid overcooking. Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes before cutting also helps retain moisture.
What’s the best way to reheat oven-baked chicken breasts?
Reheat chicken gently in the microwave or oven at a low temperature (around 300°F) to avoid drying it out. If reheating in the oven, you can cover the chicken with foil to retain moisture.
Can I freeze oven-baked chicken breasts?
Yes! You can freeze baked chicken breasts for up to 3 months. Just make sure they are fully cooled, then store them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Conclusion
This Oven-Baked Chicken Breast Recipe is a simple yet delicious way to prepare juicy, flavorful chicken every time. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a healthy, versatile dish that works well for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or as an addition to your favorite salads and sandwiches. Whether you stick to the classic seasonings or experiment with different flavors, this baked chicken recipe is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen. Enjoy!
PrintOven Baked Chicken Breast Recipe
This Oven Baked Chicken Breast Recipe is an easy, healthy, and reliable way to cook perfectly juicy chicken breasts every time. With simple seasoning and minimal prep, this baked chicken is perfect for salads, sandwiches, or served with your favorite side dishes. A great go-to recipe for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and rub to coat evenly.
- In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
- Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or in a baking dish.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
Notes
- To ensure juicy chicken, use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness.
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for even cooking.
- Serve with vegetables, rice, or salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 420mg
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