Why Make This Recipe
Baked chicken breasts are a simple and healthy option for dinner. They are easy to prepare, cooks evenly in the oven, and can be seasoned in many ways to suit your taste. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead. With just a few ingredients, you can serve a delicious and satisfying meal in no time.
How to Make Baked Chicken Breasts
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (Trim to similar size if needed.)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (Use for brushing both sides.)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp cracked black pepper
- 1 fresh parsley and lemon wedges for serving (Garnish after resting.)
Directions:
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Prep and Season: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Start by brushing the chicken breasts with olive oil. In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle the seasoning evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
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Bake and Finish: Place the seasoned chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.
How to Serve Baked Chicken Breasts
Baked chicken breasts can be served in many ways. Slice them and place them on a plate with your favorite side dishes such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor.
How to Store Baked Chicken Breasts
Store any leftover baked chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for up to 4 days. If you want to keep them for a longer time, you can freeze the chicken by wrapping each piece in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Tips to Make Baked Chicken Breasts
- Make sure the chicken breasts are of similar thickness for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking for juicier results.
Variation
You can change the flavors by using different herbs and spices. For example, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat or mix in some lemon zest for a bright flavor. You can also marinate the chicken in your favorite dressing before baking for added taste.
FAQs
1. Can I use bone-in chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time, as bone-in chicken will take longer to cook.
2. Can I bake chicken breasts without olive oil?
Yes, you can use other types of oils or even vegetable broth to help keep the chicken moist.
3. How do I know when my chicken is fully cooked?
The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. When it reads 165°F (74°C), your chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Baked Chicken Breasts
Simple and healthy baked chicken breasts, seasoned to perfection for a quick weeknight dinner.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp cracked black pepper
- 1 fresh parsley and lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil.
- Mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Sprinkle the seasoning evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Notes
Ensure the chicken breasts are of similar thickness for even cooking. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Paleo
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 54g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
