This baked chicken breast recipe is designed to give you perfectly cooked, tender chicken with a delicious golden-brown crust. The secret to achieving this lies in the balance of heat and time, along with the use of simple seasonings that enhance the natural flavor of the chicken. Whether you’re looking for a healthy protein option for meal prep or a quick and easy dinner, this recipe is a go-to.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
- Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Method
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the seasonings stick better and ensures a crispier exterior.
- Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken breasts and rub them to coat evenly. Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the chicken, ensuring all sides are covered.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching each other. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of the chicken breasts.
- Rest and Serve: Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier chicken. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with lemon wedges if desired.