Introduction to Oven Baked Chicken Breast
When it comes to simple yet delicious meals, oven baked chicken breast should be at the top of your list. This method not only delivers perfectly cooked, juicy chicken every time, but it also allows for quick prep and minimal cleanup. Ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep, oven-baked chicken can be paired with virtually anything—from salads to rice dishes—making it a versatile choice for any dining occasion.
Why Choose Oven Baked Chicken Breast?
Choosing oven-baked chicken breast offers numerous benefits. First and foremost, the baking process retains the moisture within the chicken, resulting in an unbelievably tender bite that’s hard to resist. According to the USDA, cooking chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F ensures it’s safe to eat while still being juicy.
Moreover, utilizing the oven means you can cook multiple pieces at once, which is perfect for families or meal-prepping individuals. With just a handful of seasonings and minimal ingredients, you’ll find this recipe rewarding, especially for those on a busy schedule. Plus, if you're looking for an easy way to impress your friends at dinner parties, perfectly seasoned and baked chicken breast can certainly elevate your culinary game.
For more meal prep ideas and tips, check out EatingWell and The Kitchn.
Ingredients for Oven Baked Chicken Breast
When it comes to a perfect oven baked chicken breast, selecting the right ingredients is crucial for achieving delicious, juicy results. Here are the essential elements you’ll need for this simple yet flavorful dish.
Essential ingredients for delicious oven baked chicken breast
- 4 chicken breasts (150 – 180g / 5 – 6 oz each) – Choose boneless, skinless breasts for quicker cooking and tender texture.
- 2 teaspoon olive oil – This healthy fat helps to keep your chicken moist and enhances the flavor.
For the seasoning:
- 1 ½ tablespoon brown sugar – This adds a subtle sweetness that balances the savory flavors.
- 1 teaspoon paprika – Offers vibrant color and a hint of smokiness.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme – Both herbs elevate the dish with delightful aromatic notes; feel free to experiment with your favorites!
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder – A classic for adding depth to your seasoning mix.
- ½ teaspoon each salt and pepper – Essential for that basic, seasoned flavor that lets the chicken shine.
Garnish (optional):
- Finely chopped parsley – Sprinkle some on top for a touch of freshness and color.
With these ingredients in hand, you're set to create an oven baked chicken breast that's both satisfying and full of flavor. For more tips on seasoning and cooking techniques, check out resources like the American Chicken Association. Happy cooking!
Step-by-Step Preparation of Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Cooking a perfect oven baked chicken breast can seem daunting, but it’s simpler than you think. Here’s a friendly, step-by-step guide to ensure your chicken is flavorful and juicy every time you bake.
Gather your ingredients
Before diving into the cooking process, let’s get organized! Here’s what you need to gather:
- 4 chicken breasts (150 – 180g / 5 – 6 oz each)
- 2 teaspoon olive oil
For the seasoning mix:
- 1 ½ tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme (or any herb of your choice)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon each of salt and pepper
Optionally, you can sprinkle some finely chopped parsley as a garnish. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience much smoother, so take a moment to prep!
Prepare the chicken breasts
Now that you have all your ingredients lined up, it’s time to prep those chicken breasts. Start by preheating your oven to 425°F/220°C (200°C fan). Next, you want to ensure even cooking, which can often be the key to a juicy result—pound the chicken breasts to about 1.5cm / 0.6″ thick. You can use a rolling pin, a meat mallet, or even your fist. This not only promotes even cooking but also gives you tender chicken!
Mix the seasoning
In a small bowl, combine all of your seasoning ingredients: brown sugar, paprika, oregano (or thyme), garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined, and set it aside. The blend of these spices will add a delightful flavor that can elevate your plain chicken to a whole new level!
Coat the chicken with seasoning
On a lined baking tray (cover it with foil and parchment paper for easy cleanup), place the chicken breasts upside down. Drizzle about 1 teaspoon of olive oil over them and rub it in gently—this helps the seasoning stick. Then sprinkle your seasoning mixture generously over this side. Flip the chicken and repeat: drizzle with the remaining oil, rub it in, and coat with the seasoning. Make sure to cover as much of the surface area as possible to ensure robust flavor throughout!
Bake the chicken breasts
It’s time to bake! Place the seasoned chicken in the preheated oven and bake for around 18 minutes. Keep an eye on it; the chicken should be a beautiful golden color on the surface and reach an internal temperature of 165°F/75°C using a meat thermometer to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Once done, let the chicken rest for 3 – 5 minutes before serving. You can garnish with some freshly chopped parsley for an extra touch. Enjoy your delicious, tender oven baked chicken breast alongside your favorite sides, and revel in the great flavors you just created!
For more delightful sides, check out Garlic Butter Rice with Kale. Happy cooking!
Variations on Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Lemon Herb Chicken Breast
One delightful way to enjoy oven baked chicken breast is to infuse it with zesty lemon and fresh herbs. Simply add the juice of one lemon and a handful of chopped fresh parsley or basil to your seasoning mix. This bright and fragrant combination not only enhances the flavor but also keeps the chicken moist during baking. A squeeze of lemon before serving adds a refreshing touch!
Spicy Baked Chicken Breast
If you’re in the mood for something with a kick, try making a spicy baked chicken breast. Replace the paprika in the original recipe with cayenne pepper or chili powder for heat. Adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika will give it an extra layer of flavor. This variation pairs beautifully with a cooling yogurt dip or a side of avocado salad, making it perfect for a lively dinner!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Ensuring Even Cooking
To guarantee your oven baked chicken breast cooks evenly, start by pounding the chicken to a uniform thickness of 1.5 cm (0.6 inches). This handy technique not only helps with cooking time but also keeps the meat tender and juicy. If you’re using thicker chicken breasts, consider slicing them in half to ensure they don’t dry out.
Achieving the Perfect Golden Crust
For that mouthwatering golden crust, generously coat the chicken with olive oil and your chosen seasoning blend. Bake at a high temperature of 425°F (220°C) to promote a delightful caramelization. Don’t forget to flip the chicken halfway through for an even golden color all around! For more tips, check out Serious Eats.
Serving Suggestions for Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Pair with sides for a complete meal
Elevate your oven baked chicken breast by pairing it with delicious sides. Consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables like carrots and broccoli for a nutritious option. For a heartier meal, whipped potatoes or quinoa salad also make great companions. Don’t forget a refreshing green salad—check out this Simple Greek Salad for inspiration! These sides not only add color to your plate but also enhance the flavors of the chicken.
Creative serving ideas
Get creative with your presentation! Slice the chicken breast and layer it over a bed of garlic butter rice for a comforting dish. Alternatively, cube the chicken and toss it in a wrap with fresh veggies and a yogurt-based sauce for a quick lunch. You could also serve it on a cozy bed of pasta drizzled with pesto or marinara sauce, adding a delightful twist to your meal. The possibilities are endless!
Time Breakdown for Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Preparation Time
Getting started with your oven baked chicken breast takes approximately 10 minutes. This includes gathering ingredients, seasoning your chicken, and preparing it for the oven. It’s the perfect time to get your favorite music going!
Cooking Time
Once prepped, your chicken will need about 18 minutes in the oven. Cooking at a high temperature ensures juicy, flavorful meat with a delightful golden surface.
Total Time
From start to finish, you’re looking at around 28 minutes. This quick and healthy dinner option makes it ideal for busy weeknights! Want a side to complement this? Check out our Garlic Butter Rice with Kale for a delicious pair.
Nutritional Facts for Oven Baked Chicken Breast
When you're enjoying a delicious and healthy oven baked chicken breast, it's great to know what you're fueling your body with. Here’s a quick breakdown of key nutritional facts per serving:
Calories per Serving
Each serving of this oven baked chicken breast contains approximately 286 calories, which makes it a fantastic option for a nutritious meal.
Protein Content
Packed with around 46 grams of protein, this chicken breast is perfect for muscle repair and growth, making it ideal for active lifestyles.
Sodium Levels
With about 403 mg of sodium, this dish remains well within the recommended limits, ensuring your meal is both tasty and heart-healthy.
For more on the benefits of chicken as a lean protein source, you might check out resources on American Chicken Association. Enjoy cooking!
FAQs about Oven Baked Chicken Breast
How can I keep my chicken moist?
To keep your oven baked chicken breast juicy and tender, be sure to pound the chicken to an even thickness, around 1.5 cm/0.6 inches. This helps it cook evenly. Additionally, using olive oil in the seasoning mixture adds moisture and enhances flavor. Consider brining your chicken in a simple saltwater solution for an hour before baking — this method is often favored by chefs for its effectiveness!
Can I use skin-on chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! While this recipe is perfect for boneless, skinless chicken breasts, using skin-on chicken can add extra flavor and moisture. Just be mindful that skin-on pieces may require slight adjustments in cooking time to ensure the chicken is thoroughly cooked while the skin crisps up nicely.
What side dishes go well with oven baked chicken breast?
Pair your delicious oven baked chicken breast with a variety of sides for a balanced meal. Some favorites include roasted vegetables, garlic butter rice, or a fresh salad. For a comforting touch, consider creamy mashed potatoes or quinoa. For recipe inspiration, check out these Garlic Butter Rice with Kale which compliments the chicken perfectly!
Conclusion on Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Final thoughts on enjoying homemade goodness
Creating a delightful oven baked chicken breast is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors and homemade comfort. Enjoy the satisfaction of a nourishing meal that’s both easy to prepare and incredibly delicious. Pair it with your favorite sides for a delightful dinner experience that’ll impress family and friends alike. Happy cooking!
Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Equipment
- oven
- baking tray
- foil
- Parchment Paper
- Meat thermometer
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces chicken breasts 150 – 180g / 5 – 6 oz each
- 2 teaspoon olive oil
Seasoning
- 1.5 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme or other herb of choice
- 0.25 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon pepper
Garnish
- to taste finely chopped parsley optional
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F/220°C (200°C fan).
- Pound chicken to 1.5cm / 0.6″ at the thickest part.
- Mix Seasoning.
- Line tray with foil and baking / parchment paper. Place chicken upside down on tray. Drizzle chicken with about 1 teaspoon oil. Rub over with fingers. Sprinkle with Seasoning.
- Flip chicken. Drizzle with 1 teaspoon oil, rub with fingers, sprinkle with Seasoning, covering as much of the surface area as you can.
- Bake 18 minutes, or until surface is golden or internal temperature is 165°F/75°C.
- Remove from oven and immediately transfer chicken to serving plates.
- Wait 3 – 5 minutes before serving, garnished with freshly chopped parsley if desired.
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