Description
This Oven Baked Chicken Breast recipe offers a simple, flavorful, and healthy way to prepare tender chicken breasts with a blend of herbs and spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, the chicken is seasoned with garlic powder, paprika, oregano, and thyme, then baked to juicy perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Seasoning & Oil
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Pound Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and use a meat mallet to pound them to an even thickness. This helps them cook evenly and stay tender.
- Apply Olive Oil: Rub each chicken breast thoroughly with olive oil on all sides to keep the meat moist and help the seasoning stick.
- Season Chicken: In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, paprika, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over each chicken breast, rubbing it in well to coat all sides.
- Bake Chicken: Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Resting helps retain the juices, making the chicken moist and flavorful when served.
Notes
- You can marinate the chicken with olive oil and spices for a few hours or overnight to enhance the flavor even more.
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking and ensure safety.
- For variation, add a squeeze of lemon juice or fresh herbs like parsley before serving.
- Serve with steamed vegetables, salad, or your favorite side dish for a balanced meal.
