Oven Baked Chicken Breasts

These oven baked chicken breasts turn out juicy, tender, and perfectly seasoned every time. They’re great for family dinners, meal prep, or quick lunches. Plus, they cook in under 25 minutes, making them ideal for busy weeknights.

Why This Recipe Works So Well for You

This recipe uses simple pantry spices and a high-heat roasting method to keep the chicken moist and flavorful. It’s beginner-friendly, easy to customize, and reliable enough to use any night of the week. You get delicious results without any complicated steps.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6–7 oz each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken and rub to coat both sides.
4. Mix the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and oregano in a small bowl.
5. Sprinkle the seasoning evenly over the chicken.
6. Place the chicken breasts on the baking sheet, leaving space between them.
7. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the thickest part reaches 165°F.
8. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes so the juices settle before slicing.

Variations / Substitutes

• Use chili powder or smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.
• Swap olive oil for avocado oil if you prefer.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice after baking for brightness.
• Replace oregano with Italian seasoning for a different twist.
• For low-sodium needs, reduce the salt and boost herbs instead.

Discover the best ways to cook chicken breast and explore our top healthy chicken breast recipes for balanced meals.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overbaking the chicken: Always check for 165°F for perfect juiciness.
• Skipping the resting time: Resting keeps the chicken from drying out.
• Not drying the chicken first: Moisture on the surface prevents browning.
• Crowding the pan: This steams the chicken instead of roasting it.

FAQs

How do I store leftover chicken?
Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Can I freeze cooked chicken breasts?
Yes—freeze them for up to 3 months in freezer-safe bags.

How do I reheat without drying out?
Warm in a 300°F oven for 10–12 minutes or microwave in short bursts.

Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Yes, but they may take 5–10 more minutes depending on thickness.

What sides go well with this recipe?
Mashed potatoes, rice, roasted veggies, or a simple salad are all great.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes—just use two baking sheets so the chicken has room to roast.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Absolutely. It reheats well and works in salads, wraps, rice bowls, and more.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoy making these juicy oven baked chicken breasts. They’re simple, tasty, and perfect for busy days—give them a try this week!

Full Recipe

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