Juicy Oven-Baked Chicken Breast Dinner
This recipe provides a simple yet effective method for achieving perfectly cooked, juicy chicken breasts every time. With just a few common ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a delicious and healthy meal that's perfect for any weeknight dinner.
Equipment
- Oven
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper or Aluminum Foil
- Meat Mallet or Rolling Pin (optional)
- Small Bowl
- Instant-Read Thermometer
- Cutting Board
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (3/4 to 1 inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt (Kosher recommended)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground recommended)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Pound chicken breasts to an even 3/4 to 1-inch thickness for uniform cooking.
Seasoning
- Combine salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and dried thyme in a small bowl.
- Drizzle olive oil over the chicken, then rub the seasoning mix onto both sides to ensure full coverage.
Cooking
- Place seasoned chicken on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring space between each piece.
- Bake for 18-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.
Resting and Serving
- Remove chicken from oven, transfer to a cutting board, and tent loosely with foil.
- Let it rest for 5-10 minutes to redistribute juices before slicing and serving.
Notes
Pounding the chicken to an even thickness is crucial for even cooking. Always use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through to 165°F (74°C). Resting the chicken after baking allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful product. Serve with your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.