Oven Baked Chicken Breast : 7 Irresistible Reasons to Try This Juicy, Chicken Recipe

Name: Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the Chicken:; 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or bone-in, if you prefer); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme or rosemary (optional, for extra flavor); Optional Garnishes and Sides:; Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish); Lemon wedges (to serve); Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or rice (for sides)

Posted on June 18, 2025 ·

By Eva

a plate topped with chicken and sliced lemons

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When it comes to a simple, healthy, and delicious meal, Oven Baked Chicken Breast is one of the best choices. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, oven-baked chicken breasts are easy to make, flavorful, and versatile. They’re tender, juicy, and require minimal effort to prepare, making them an essential dish in any home cook’s repertoire.

This recipe is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a chicken breast recipe baked to perfection with crispy edges and moist interior. If you’re tired of dry, flavorless chicken, this is the method that will change everything.

What Makes Oven Baked Chicken Breast So Special?

What sets Oven Baked Chicken Breast apart from other chicken recipes is the combination of simplicity and flavor. Baked chicken breasts are quick to prepare, and they retain their moisture while developing a golden, crisp outer layer. The oven’s gentle heat cooks the chicken evenly, making it juicy and tender.

Whether you’re preparing baked bone-in chicken or opting for boneless breasts, this recipe ensures perfectly cooked chicken every time. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—serve it with sides, salads, or grains for a complete meal.

Looking for more chicken dinner recipes? Our oven-baked chicken breast recipe is sure to become a weekly favorite.

Ingredients for Oven Baked Chicken Breast

Here’s everything you’ll need for a perfectly baked chicken breast:

For the Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or bone-in, if you prefer)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh thyme or rosemary (optional, for extra flavor)

Optional Garnishes and Sides:

Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Lemon wedges (to serve)
Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or rice (for sides)

This basic seasoning combination enhances the natural flavor of the chicken while keeping it moist. You can easily swap out herbs or spices based on what you have on hand.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Preparing Oven Baked Chicken Breast

To make oven-baked chicken breasts, you’ll need just a few kitchen tools:

Baking sheet or oven-safe pan
Aluminum foil (optional, for covering the chicken)
Meat thermometer (optional, but recommended for perfect doneness)
Tongs or a fork for flipping the chicken

For more chicken dishes recipes, check out our Chicken Thigh Recipes for more flavorful chicken meals.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Oven Baked Chicken Breast

Follow these simple steps to make the juiciest baked chicken breast:

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat ensures a crispy outside and juicy inside.

2. Prepare the Chicken Breasts

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove any moisture. This step helps the seasoning stick and ensures a crispy exterior.

3. Season the Chicken

Drizzle the chicken breasts with olive oil, then rub the chicken all over with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. If you’re using fresh herbs, sprinkle them over the chicken as well.

4. Arrange the Chicken on a Baking Sheet

Place the seasoned chicken breasts on a baking sheet. Make sure there’s some space between each breast to allow for even cooking. If you’re using bone-in chicken, place the skin-side up.

5. Bake the Chicken

For boneless, skinless breasts, bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). If you’re using bone-in chicken, bake for 35-45 minutes.

6. Rest the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the chicken moist.

7. Serve and Garnish

Slice the chicken if you prefer and garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon. Serve with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.

This oven-baked chicken recipe pairs perfectly with roasted potatoes or a side of corn dogs for a fun, casual meal. For a more elevated option, try serving it with grilled vegetables.

How to Keep Chicken Breast Moist in the Oven

One of the challenges when baking chicken breast is preventing it from drying out. Here are some tips to keep your chicken juicy and tender:

Don’t overcook the chicken: Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
Let the chicken rest: After baking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before cutting into it. This helps retain the juices.
Cover the chicken: If you’re worried about the chicken drying out, loosely cover it with foil while it bakes. Remove the foil in the last 5 minutes to crisp the skin.

For a baked chicken breast that’s always moist and flavorful, try our Easy Rotisserie Chicken Casserole Recipes for another effortless dish.

Grilling vs. Baking: Which Is Better for Chicken Breast?

While baking is a great way to ensure even cooking, you can also grill your chicken for a smoky flavor. Here’s how you can adapt this recipe for the grill:

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side for boneless breasts, or 10-12 minutes for bone-in chicken, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Baste with sauce or marinade for added flavor and moisture.

Both methods are fantastic—grilling adds a smoky flavor, while baking results in a more evenly cooked, juicy chicken.

For more oven-baked chicken recipes, check out our Baked Bone-In Chicken for another easy-to-follow meal.

What to Serve with Oven Baked Chicken Breast

This chicken breast recipe pairs well with a variety of sides, making it easy to customize your meal:

Garlic bread or dinner rolls for dipping in sauces
Roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini
Rice or quinoa for a satisfying side dish
Fresh salad with a light vinaigrette

For a comforting and filling option, pair your baked chicken breast with mashed potatoes or sweet potato fries.

Recipe Variations: Customize Your Oven Baked Chicken Breast

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are some variations to try:

Spicy version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning for a spicy kick.
Herb-infused: Try using fresh rosemary, thyme, or oregano for an aromatic, herbal flavor.
Cheesy version: Top the chicken with mozzarella or parmesan cheese during the last few minutes of baking for a cheesy crust.

For more chicken breast recipes, check out our Poultry Recipes for more flavorful chicken meals.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Oven Baked Chicken Breast

Overcooking the chicken: Be sure to monitor the chicken closely, especially if you’re using thinner breasts.
Not letting the chicken rest: Resting the chicken after baking is crucial to keep it juicy.
Skipping the seasoning: Don’t be afraid to season your chicken well. Even simple seasonings like salt, pepper, and garlic can elevate the flavor.

How to Store and Reheat Leftover Oven Baked Chicken Breast

To store:
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

To reheat:
Reheat the chicken in the microwave or oven. If reheating in the oven, place the chicken on a baking sheet and cover it with foil to prevent drying out. Reheat at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until warm.

To freeze:
Wrap individual chicken breasts in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

For more cooked rotisserie chicken recipes, try our Rotisserie Chicken Pasta for another quick and easy meal option.

FAQs About Oven Baked Chicken Breast

Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless?
Yes! Bone-in chicken will take a bit longer to cook, but it will have more flavor. Simply adjust the baking time to 35-45 minutes.

Can I marinate the chicken before baking?
Yes, marinating the chicken for 30 minutes to a few hours will add extra flavor and moisture to the chicken.

Can I cook chicken breasts from frozen?
While it’s best to thaw chicken before cooking, you can cook frozen chicken breasts by increasing the cooking time by 50%. Be sure to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure that any seasonings or sauces you add don’t contain gluten.

This Oven Baked Chicken Breast recipe is simple, versatile, and delicious—perfect for busy nights or when you need to feed a crowd. With minimal ingredients and effort, you can create a meal that’s flavorful, juicy, and satisfying.

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