Description
A simple and flavorful recipe for oven-baked chicken breasts seasoned with a sweet and spicy rub, perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (around 6 ounces each)
- 1/2 Tablespoon olive oil
Seasoning Mix
- 3 Tablespoons light brown sugar
- 1/2 Tablespoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F. Lightly spray a large baking dish or baking sheet with non-stick spray and set it aside to prepare for the chicken.
- Prepare Chicken: Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of parchment paper or plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound each breast to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and rub evenly to coat all sides. Arrange the chicken breasts evenly on the prepared baking dish or sheet.
- Mix Seasonings: In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Rub this seasoning mixture all over both sides of each chicken breast, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Bake Chicken: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the chicken breasts for approximately 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Rest and Serve: Carefully remove the chicken from the oven and allow it to stand for 5 minutes. This resting period lets the juices redistribute for maximum tenderness. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious oven-baked chicken breasts!
Notes
- Using parchment paper or plastic wrap when pounding the chicken helps prevent mess and makes it easier to get an even thickness.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked but still juicy.
- You can customize the seasoning by adding smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Allowing the chicken to rest after baking improves flavor and texture.
- Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
