Cooking is one of life’s little joys, especially when it comes to a dish like Simple Oven-Baked Chicken Breasts. I’ll never forget the first time I made this recipe—it was a weeknight, I was exhausted, but the aroma that filled my kitchen made everything worthwhile. With its crispy exterior and juicy center, this dish not only satisfies hunger but also brings that cozy feeling of a home-cooked meal. Whether you’re whipping it up for a busy family dinner or prepping meals for the week ahead, this recipe is a go-to that never disappoints.
What Makes This Recipe Special
If you’re looking for a dish that’s quick, budget-friendly, and kid-approved, then look no further! This simple oven-baked chicken breast recipe is perfect for any occasion. It comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for those hectic weeknight dinners. Plus, the flavorful seasoning blend creates a delightful taste that even the pickiest eaters can appreciate.
"This chicken was so juicy! My family loved it, and I loved how easy it was to make!"
Preparing Simple Oven-Baked Chicken Breasts
This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal effort, which is part of its charm. You’ll start with just a few basic ingredients, and the magic happens in the oven. Here’s what to expect: you’ll prepare the chicken by seasoning it with a mix of spices, let it bake in the oven to perfection, and then rest before slicing. Trust me, you’ll be amazed at how you can achieve such great flavor with so little time.
Key Ingredients
To make your Simple Oven-Baked Chicken Breasts, gather the following:
- 3 medium chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
You can easily swap the olive oil for melted butter if you prefer a richer flavor. Feel free to adjust the spices based on your taste or experiment with herbs like rosemary or basil—dinner just got more exciting!
Directions to Follow
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and dried thyme until well combined.
- Rub this seasoning mix all over the chicken breasts to coat them thoroughly.
- Arrange the seasoned chicken in a baking dish, ensuring they’re not overcrowded.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) as measured with a meat thermometer.
- Once cooked, remove from the oven and allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
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Best Ways to Enjoy It
This oven-baked chicken is incredibly versatile—you can serve it on its own or as part of a larger meal. Try pairing it with roasted vegetables, a light salad, or fluffy quinoa for a balanced plate. For a family-friendly twist, slice the chicken and toss it in tacos or serve it over rice with your favorite sauce.
How to Store & Freeze
If you have leftovers (though I doubt you will!), storing them is easy. Allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze the chicken for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Helpful Cooking Tips
For the juiciest chicken, consider marinating it in the seasoning mix for a couple of hours or overnight if time allows. Also, using a meat thermometer will help ensure that your chicken is perfectly cooked without drying out.
Creative Twists
Feel free to mix things up! Add a splash of lemon juice for a zesty kick or toss in some grated Parmesan cheese to the seasoning for a cheesy crust. Herbal variations, such as using fresh rosemary or sage instead of dried thyme, can also elevate the flavor profile.
Your Questions Answered
What is the prep time for this recipe?
Prep time is about 10 minutes with cook time around 20-25 minutes.
Can I substitute chicken thighs for breasts?
Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a little longer to reach the safe internal temperature.
How do I know the chicken is cooked?
Using a meat thermometer is the best way. Check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
This oven-baked chicken is more than just a meal; it’s a remedy for your busy days and a delicious treat for your loved ones. Enjoy every bite!
Print
Simple Oven-Baked Chicken Breasts
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo
Description
A quick and delicious recipe for juicy oven-baked chicken breasts, perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 3 medium chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and dried thyme until well combined.
- Rub this seasoning mix all over the chicken breasts to coat them thoroughly.
- Arrange the seasoned chicken in a baking dish, ensuring they’re not overcrowded.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Once cooked, remove from the oven and allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
For juiciness, consider marinating the chicken in the seasoning mix for a couple of hours or overnight. Use a meat thermometer for perfect cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: chicken, oven-baked, quick recipe, weeknight dinner, family-friendly