Oven Baked Chicken Breast Recipe
When you think about preparing an oven-baked chicken breast, the goal is usually a juicy, flavorful dish that's both simple and satisfying. You might wonder how a few basic ingredients like olive oil, lemon juice, and spices can transform an ordinary chicken breast into a meal worth savoring. The key lies in the marinating process and precise baking time. But what's the secret to ensuring it doesn't end up dry or bland? Before you start gathering your ingredients, imagine the aroma filling your kitchen as you wait for that perfect moment to take the first bite. Curious about the next step?
Recipe
Oven-baked chicken breast is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with flavor, making it an excellent choice for any meal. The key to achieving a juicy and tender chicken breast lies in the marination and baking technique. By infusing the chicken with a blend of spices and lemon juice, and baking it at the right temperature, you can guarantee a delicious result every time.
This dish isn't only easy to prepare, but it also pairs well with a variety of sides, offering versatility for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
To begin, you'll need to marinate the chicken breasts to enhance their flavor. This involves coating them in a mixture of olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Allow the chicken to absorb these flavors for at least 15 minutes, or extend the marination time up to 2 hours for a more intense taste.
Once marinated, the chicken is ready to be baked in the oven at 375°F (190°C), guaranteeing a perfectly cooked and moist result.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lemon
To cook the oven-baked chicken breast, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice to form a marinade.
Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over them, guaranteeing they're completely coated. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
Place the marinated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
To guarantee the best results, let the chicken rest after baking, as this allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and moist. Using a meat thermometer is a helpful tool to guarantee the chicken is cooked perfectly without overbaking.
For added flavor, consider sprinkling fresh herbs like parsley or thyme on top before serving. Enjoy this delicious oven-baked chicken breast with your favorite side dishes for a complete and satisfying meal.
Cooking Steps
Let's get started on making your chicken breast the star of the dinner table!
First, you'll want to preheat your oven to 375°F—think of it as warming up the stage for the main act.
While the oven's doing its thing, mix your marinade ingredients like a flavor wizard, coat the chicken, and let it chill for at least 15 minutes before sending it off to bake to perfection; then, give it a brief rest to soak up all the juicy goodness.
Step 1. Preheat Oven to 375°F
Preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) is an essential step in making certain your chicken breasts cook evenly and stay juicy.
Don't skip this step, or you might end up with dry, sad chicken. Think of it like warming up before a workout—it gets everything ready to perform at its best.
Go ahead and set your oven to the right temperature, and let it do its thing while you prep the rest. It usually takes about 10-15 minutes, so use this time wisely. Maybe prepare your baking sheet or gather your ingredients.
Remember, a properly preheated oven makes sure that your chicken starts cooking immediately, sealing in those tasty juices.
Trust me, you'll taste the difference!
Step 2. Mix Marinade Ingredients Together
While your oven reaches the right temperature, it's time to focus on creating a flavorful marinade for the chicken.
Grab a small bowl and mix together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, the juice of one lemon, and a teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
Don't forget the salt and pepper—just a teaspoon of salt and half a teaspoon of black pepper will do.
Give everything a good stir until it's well combined.
Imagine you're making a potion, but instead of magical spells, you're casting flavors that'll make your chicken taste incredible!
The olive oil helps lock in moisture, while the spices bring a tasty zing.
You're on your way to culinary greatness with this marinade magic!
Step 3. Marinate Chicken for 15 Minutes
Once you've whipped up your marinade, it's time to immerse those chicken breasts in flavor.
Grab a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag, and place your chicken inside. Pour the marinade over the breasts, making sure they're coated like they've just been to a spa. Use your hands or a spoon to massage the marinade in if you're feeling fancy.
Let the chicken soak up all those delicious flavors for at least 15 minutes. If you've got time, you can extend this up to 2 hours in the fridge. This short soak makes a big difference, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful.
Step 4. Bake Chicken at 375°F
With your chicken marinated to perfection, it's time to pop it in the oven and let the magic happen.
Preheat your oven to 375°F, making sure it's nice and toasty.
Grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup (because who loves scrubbing pans, right?).
Place your marinated chicken breasts on the sheet, giving them a bit of space to breathe.
Slide the sheet into the oven's cozy embrace and set your timer for 20-25 minutes.
The goal? An internal temp of 165°F.
If you've got a meat thermometer, now's the time to play kitchen scientist.
As the aroma fills your kitchen, you'll know you're on your way to dinner glory.
Enjoy the process!
Step 5. Let Chicken Rest Briefly
After you've pulled your perfectly baked chicken from the oven, let it rest for about 5 minutes. This short pause is essential, even if it feels like an eternity with that delicious aroma wafting around.
Letting your chicken relax allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is juicy and tender. Think of it as a mini spa break for your chicken!
If you jump in too soon, those precious juices will escape, leaving you with dry chicken, and nobody wants that. So, resist the urge to cut it immediately.
Use this time to set the table or toss together a quick salad. Trust me, once you taste that succulent chicken, you'll be thankful for the wait. Your taste buds will definitely thank you!
Final Thoughts
Consider incorporating oven-baked chicken breast into your regular meal rotation for its simplicity and delicious results.
It's like having a culinary ace up your sleeve—easy to prepare, yet impressive on the plate. With just a few ingredients and some smart marinating, you can create a dish that's juicy and flavorful.
Plus, it's versatile enough to pair with anything in your fridge, from roasted veggies to a comforting pile of mashed potatoes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
You can definitely use chicken thighs instead of breasts. They'll be juicier and more flavorful. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs usually need a bit longer to reach the right internal temperature. Enjoy experimenting!
How Can I Make the Chicken Spicier?
To make the chicken spicier, add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the marinade. You can also include a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick. Adjust the amount to match your heat preference. Enjoy!
Is It Necessary to Marinate the Chicken?
You don't have to marinate the chicken, but it enhances flavor and tenderness. The marinade infuses the meat with spices and moisture, making it juicier. If you're short on time, a quick marinade can still improve taste.
Can I Cook the Chicken Without Parchment Paper?
Yes, you can cook the chicken without parchment paper. Just lightly grease the baking sheet to prevent sticking. It won't affect the taste or texture much, but parchment makes cleanup easier. Enjoy your delicious chicken!
How Do I Store Leftover Baked Chicken?
Store leftover baked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Use a freezer-safe bag or container if you plan to freeze it. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to maintain moisture.
