Baked Chicken Breast
Perfectly seasoned and baked to juicy perfection, this oven-baked chicken breast recipe combines simplicity and flavor for a crowd-pleasing dish.
With minimal prep and a delicious blend of seasonings, it’s perfect for busy nights or meal prepping.
This recipe ensures tender, flavorful chicken breasts every time, thanks to a balance of spices and a touch of butter for added richness. Pair it with sides or enjoy it solo; it’s an easy, versatile main course that never disappoints.
Essential Ingredients for the Best Baked Chicken Breast
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The star of the dish, offering lean, juicy protein.
- Light brown sugar – Adds a hint of sweetness that balances the savory spices.
- Olive oil – Locks in moisture and helps the seasoning stick.
- Onion powder and garlic powder – Essential aromatics that add depth to the flavor profile.
- Italian seasoning – A flavorful mix of herbs for a hint of Mediterranean flair.
- Ground paprika – Adds color and a mild, earthy sweetness.
- Salt and ground black pepper – Enhances all other flavors for a well-rounded taste.
- Butter, diced – Melts over the chicken, adding richness and juiciness.
Step-by-Step Guide to Perfectly Baked Chicken Breasts
- Prepare Your Oven and Dish: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Flatten the Chicken: For even cooking, place each chicken breast between sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound with a rolling pin or meat mallet to about 0.5 to 0.75 inches thick.
- Season the Chicken: Rub olive oil over the chicken to help lock in moisture. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle and press the blend evenly onto each piece for maximum flavor.
- Bake to Perfection: Arrange seasoned chicken in the dish, topping each with a small piece of butter. Bake for 18-20 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. For a golden finish, broil the chicken for 1-3 minutes if desired.
- Serve: Let the chicken rest briefly before serving. Enjoy as is or with your favorite side dishes!
Tips for Juicy and Flavorful Baked Chicken Breasts
Flattening the chicken is essential for even cooking, so take the time to ensure each breast is uniform in thickness. This step prevents drying and guarantees tenderness.
Using a meat thermometer is a game-changer; it ensures you cook to the precise internal temperature of 165°F, keeping the chicken juicy without overcooking.
If you prefer a stronger flavor, feel free to double the seasoning blend or add extra herbs like thyme or rosemary.
Storing Leftovers
To keep leftovers fresh, store the baked chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F until warm or microwave in short intervals to avoid drying out. For longer storage, wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Baked Chicken Breast Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon ground paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon butter diced
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
- Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a rolling pin or the flat side of a meat mallet, gently pound each piece to a uniform thickness of about 0.5 to 0.75 inches. Rub olive oil thoroughly over the chicken.
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Evenly sprinkle the seasoning blend over the chicken, then gently rub it in.
- Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared dish, placing a small piece of butter on top of each. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F. For a nicely browned finish, broil the chicken for an additional 1-3 minutes if desired. Serve immediately.