Introduction
Oven-baked chicken breasts are a simple, healthy, and versatile meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. With just a few pantry seasonings, you can create tender, flavorful chicken that pairs well with vegetables, rice, potatoes, or salads. This recipe keeps the chicken moist while delivering delicious flavor in every bite.
Instruction
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon melted butter (optional, for extra juiciness)
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
Brush both sides with olive oil.
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over each chicken breast.
Arrange the chicken in a lightly greased baking dish, leaving a little space between each piece.
Bake for 22 to 28 minutes, depending on the thickness, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Brush with melted butter if desired and let the chicken rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
Method
Drying the chicken helps the seasonings stick better.
Coating with olive oil locks in moisture during baking.
Baking at a high temperature cooks the chicken quickly without drying it out.
Allowing the chicken to rest before slicing keeps the juices inside the meat.
Benefits
Excellent source of lean protein.
Low in carbohydrates and naturally gluten-free.
Supports muscle growth and repair.
Easy to prepare for weekly meal prep.
Pairs well with a wide variety of healthy side dishes.
Nutrition
Approximate values per serving
Calories: 260
Protein: 38 g
Fat: 10 g
Carbohydrates: 2 g
Fiber: 0 g
Sugar: 0 g
Sodium: 520 mg
Tips
Choose chicken breasts of similar size for even cooking.
Use a meat thermometer to prevent overcooking.
Marinate the chicken for 30 minutes to 4 hours for even more flavor.
Cover loosely with foil while resting to keep the chicken warm.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
Oven-baked juicy chicken breasts are an easy, nutritious, and delicious option for any meal. With minimal ingredients and simple preparation, you’ll have tender, flavorful chicken that’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or adding to your favorite salads and sandwiches.