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An easy baked chicken breast recipe, perfectly cooked and golden brown.

Classic Easy Baked Chicken Breast Recipe

This recipe provides a simple yet delicious way to prepare tender and juicy baked chicken breasts, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or meal prep. The chicken is seasoned with a blend of savory spices and baked to perfection.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4 fillets
Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or foil
  • Paper towels
  • Small bowl
  • Whisk
  • Instant-read meat thermometer
  • Cutting board

Ingredients
  

Chicken

  • 1.5 to 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Seasoning

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika smoked paprika optional
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried herbs thyme, oregano, or rosemary (optional)

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
  • Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels; if very thick, gently pound to an even thickness of about 1 inch.

Seasoning

  • In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and optional herbs.
  • Place chicken on the baking sheet and coat thoroughly with the seasoning mixture.

Baking

  • Bake in the preheated oven for 18-25 minutes, depending on thickness, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  • Remove chicken from oven, transfer to a cutting board, tent with foil, and let rest for 5-10 minutes.

Serving

  • Slice, dice, or serve whole and enjoy.

Notes

For best results, do not overcrowd the baking sheet. Adjust baking time based on the thickness of your chicken breasts and your oven's calibration. Resting the chicken is crucial for juicy results.