Indulge in this baked chicken breast recipe that promises to be your new weeknight favorite! Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts seasoned to perfection with a delightful blend of garlic powder, paprika, and a splash of zesty lemon juice. As they bake, the aroma fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to the table. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile—pair it with roasted veggies or a fresh salad for a wholesome meal. Get ready to savor every bite of this succulent delight that will have your taste buds dancing!
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
baked chicken breast recipe
Equipment
- 1 baking dish Ensure it’s large enough for the chicken breasts.
- 1 Oven Preheat to 375°F (190°C).
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 pieces Boneless, skinless chicken breasts The star of the dish.
Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil Helps to keep the chicken moist.
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder Provides savory depth.
- 1 teaspoon Onion powder Enhances flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon Paprika Adds smokiness and color.
- to taste Salt Essential for flavor.
- to taste Pepper Adds heat.
- to taste Herbs (like thyme or rosemary) Fresh or dried for aromatic notes.
Instructions
Preparation
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Step 2: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
- Step 3: Rub olive oil over the chicken, then season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Step 4: Place the seasoned chicken in a baking dish, ensuring they are not touching.
- Step 5: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken.
- Step 6: Bake for 25-30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Step 7: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Step 8: Slice and serve with your favorite sides.
Why You’ll Love This Baked Chicken Breast Recipe
- Perfectly juicy chicken every time, thanks to our secret seasoning blend!
- Quick and easy prep, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
- Versatile dish that pairs well with any side you love.
- Healthy and low in calories, keeping your meal guilt-free.
- Great for meal prep, so you can enjoy leftovers all week!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category: | Main Dish |
| Cuisine: | American |
| Prep Time: | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 30 minutes |
| Total Time: | 40 minutes |
| Dietary: | Gluten-Free, Low-Carb |
| Serves: | 4 |
| Best Served: | With steamed vegetables or salad |
Ingredients for Baked Chicken Breast Recipe
- Chicken breasts – The star of the dish, choose boneless for easy cooking.
- Olive oil – Helps to keep the chicken moist and adds flavor.
- Garlic powder – Provides a savory depth to the seasoning.
- Onion powder – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Paprika – Adds a subtle smokiness and beautiful color.
- Salt – Essential for bringing out the flavors in the chicken.
- Pepper – Adds a touch of heat and balances the dish.
- Herbs (like thyme or rosemary) – Fresh or dried, they elevate the taste with aromatic notes.
Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.
How to Make the Baked Chicken Breast Recipe
Get ready to create a mouthwatering baked chicken breast that’s juicy and full of flavor!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and let it warm up while you prepare the chicken.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Take 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
Rub olive oil all over the chicken breasts, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika for a flavor boost.
Step 4: Arrange in Baking Dish
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish, making sure they’re not touching.
Step 5: Add Lemon Juice
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken for a zesty kick.
Step 6: Bake the Chicken
Pop the baking dish into the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Step 7: Let it Rest
Once done, take the chicken out and let it rest for 5 minutes to keep it juicy.
Step 8: Slice and Serve
Slice the chicken and serve it with your favorite sides. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Pro Tips for Making the Baked Chicken Breast Recipe
- Brine your chicken breast in a saltwater solution for 30 minutes to enhance juiciness.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness at 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing to retain moisture.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices for unique flavor profiles.
- For extra crispiness, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
How to Serve Baked Chicken Breast Recipe
- Pair with a fresh garden salad for a light meal.
- Serve alongside roasted vegetables for a colorful plate.
- Top with avocado slices and a squeeze of lime for a zesty twist.
- Enjoy in a whole grain wrap with your favorite veggies.
- Slice and add to pasta for a hearty, protein-packed dish.
- Serve with quinoa or brown rice for a wholesome side.
- Drizzle with a homemade herb sauce for extra flavor.
- Accompany with sweet potato mash for a comforting combo.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color.
- Enjoy with a side of creamy coleslaw for a crunchy contrast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
Freezing
• Wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
• Use a microwave on medium power for quick reheating.
• Add a splash of broth to keep it moist while reheating.
FAQs
How do I keep my baked chicken breast juicy?
To ensure your baked chicken breast remains juicy, consider brining it in a saltwater solution for a few hours before cooking. Also, avoid overcooking by using a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F (75°C). Letting it rest for a few minutes after baking allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist.
What can I use instead of oil for seasoning?
If you’re looking for a substitute for oil, try using low-sodium chicken broth or a mixture of lemon juice and herbs. These alternatives can add flavor without the added fat, making your dish lighter while still delicious.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it’s best to thaw them first for even cooking. If you’re in a hurry, you can bake them from frozen, but increase the cooking time and ensure they reach the safe internal temperature.
What are some good side dishes to serve with baked chicken breast?
Some great side dishes include steamed vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad. These options complement the chicken well and add a nutritious balance to your meal. Feel free to get creative with your sides!
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