Oven Baked Chicken Breasts (Print version)
Achieve perfectly cooked, juicy chicken breasts with this straightforward baking technique that delivers consistent results every time.
# What you'll need:
→ Chicken
01 - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
→ Marinade & Seasonings
02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt
04 - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
05 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
06 - 1 teaspoon paprika
07 - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
08 - 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
→ Optional Garnish
09 - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
10 - Lemon wedges, for serving
# Method:
01 - Preheat your oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
02 - Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure proper seasoning adhesion.
03 - In a small bowl, combine olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, dried oregano, and dried thyme until well blended.
04 - Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of each chicken breast, ensuring full coverage.
05 - Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart to allow even heat circulation.
06 - Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F when measured with a meat thermometer.
07 - Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain juices.
08 - Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges if desired.
# Expert advice:
01 -
- The marinade creates a beautiful golden crust while keeping the inside incredibly moist
- These chicken breasts reheat beautifully for meal prep lunches all week
02 -
- Pounding thicker parts to match thinner sections ensures everything finishes cooking at the same time
- A meat thermometer is the only reliable way to guarantee juicy, safe chicken every time
03 -
- Let your chicken sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before cooking for more even results
- Brush with a little extra olive oil halfway through baking if the edges look too brown