Baked Chicken Breast

Baked chicken breasts are one of the easiest and healthiest ways to prepare chicken at home. They’re perfect for busy weeknight dinners or meal prep for the week ahead. With a few simple ingredients and the right cooking method, you can make juicy, tender chicken that’s never dry. This recipe combines olive oil, Italian seasoning, paprika, and black pepper for a flavorful coating that enhances the natural taste of chicken.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon seasoned salt or table salt
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F and lightly grease a rimmed baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, toss chicken breasts with olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, paprika, and black pepper until evenly coated.
3. Place the chicken on the prepared pan and bake uncovered for 21 to 26 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F when checked with an instant-read thermometer.
4. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing to keep the juices locked in.
5. Slice and serve with the pan juices drizzled over the top.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: Baked chicken breast is perfect with roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, quinoa, or a fresh green salad. Slice it thin for sandwiches or dice it to toss into pasta, casseroles, or wraps.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Wrap tightly in foil or freezer-safe bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm gently in the oven at 300°F or microwave in short intervals with a splash of broth or water to prevent dryness.

Variations

• Lemon Herb Chicken: Add lemon juice, lemon zest, and fresh parsley for a bright and refreshing twist.
• Garlic Butter Chicken: Mix melted butter and minced garlic with the olive oil for a rich, savory coating.
• Spicy Cajun Chicken: Swap Italian seasoning for Cajun or Creole spice blend to bring smoky heat.
• Honey Mustard Chicken: Combine Dijon mustard, honey, and a splash of apple cider vinegar for a sweet-tangy glaze.
• Parmesan Crusted Chicken: Sprinkle grated Parmesan on top of the chicken before baking for a cheesy, golden crust.
• BBQ Chicken: Brush barbecue sauce on the chicken during the last 10 minutes of baking for smoky-sweet flavor.
• Mediterranean Style: Season with oregano, garlic, and drizzle with olive oil, then top with crumbled feta before serving.
• Teriyaki Baked Chicken: Marinate the chicken breasts in soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger for at least 30 minutes before baking. Brush with extra teriyaki sauce in the last 5 minutes of cooking for a sticky, flavorful glaze.
• Ranch Seasoned Chicken: Coat the chicken with olive oil and a packet of dry ranch seasoning mix for a tangy, herby flavor. This variation pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
• Buffalo Chicken: Toss the chicken in olive oil, garlic powder, and paprika, then brush with buffalo sauce after baking. Serve with blue cheese or ranch dressing on the side.
• Herb-Crusted Chicken: Use a mix of fresh chopped rosemary, thyme, parsley, and garlic with olive oil. Press the herbs firmly onto the chicken before baking for an aromatic crust.
• Pesto Chicken: Spread a thin layer of basil pesto over each chicken breast before baking. Once cooked, top with shredded mozzarella or Parmesan for an Italian-inspired dish.
• Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken: Mix chopped sun-dried tomatoes with olive oil and garlic, then spoon over the chicken before baking. This adds a sweet, tangy Mediterranean flavor.
• Smoky Paprika Chicken: Use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika for a bold, smoky flavor. Pair with grilled veggies or a rice pilaf for a hearty meal.
• Italian Baked Chicken with Mozzarella: After baking for 15 minutes, top the chicken breasts with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese, then return to the oven until melted and bubbly.
• Maple Dijon Chicken: Combine Dijon mustard with pure maple syrup and coat the chicken before baking. This gives a sweet-savory glaze that caramelizes beautifully.
• Coconut Curry Chicken: Mix olive oil with curry powder, garlic, and coconut milk. Coat the chicken and bake until juicy. This pairs perfectly with rice or naan bread.
• Caprese Chicken: Bake chicken until nearly done, then top with fresh mozzarella, sliced tomatoes, and basil. Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving for a fresh Italian twist.
• Mediterranean Olive Chicken: Add sliced Kalamata olives, cherry tomatoes, and red onion to the pan with the seasoned chicken. Bake together for a rustic, one-pan meal.
• Taco Seasoned Chicken: Swap Italian seasoning for taco seasoning, then serve sliced chicken in tacos, burritos, or taco bowls.
• Garlic Honey Chicken: Whisk together honey, soy sauce, and garlic, then brush it over the chicken before baking. This creates a sweet, garlicky glaze.

FAQs

1. How do I keep baked chicken breast juicy?
Coat with olive oil, bake at 400°F, and don’t overcook. Resting after baking also keeps juices inside.

2. Can I marinate the chicken before baking?
Yes, marinating adds extra flavor. A simple lemon-garlic or yogurt marinade works well.

3. Should I pound the chicken breasts before baking?
Yes, pounding to an even thickness ensures even cooking and prevents dryness.

4. Can I bake frozen chicken breasts?
You can, but thawing first gives better results. If baking from frozen, add 8–10 minutes to the cook time.

5. What temperature should chicken be cooked to?
Chicken breasts are safe to eat at an internal temperature of 165°F.

6. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, baked chicken breast is excellent for meal prep and keeps well for days.

7. What spices go best with chicken breast?
Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili flakes, or fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary.

8. How long should chicken rest after baking?
Let it rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.

9. Can I use this recipe for chicken tenders?
Yes, but reduce the baking time to about 15–18 minutes depending on size.

10. What sides pair well with baked chicken breast?
Roasted potatoes, steamed broccoli, rice pilaf, pasta, couscous, or fresh salads all make great pairings.

Baked chicken breast is a versatile, healthy, and delicious dish that fits into any meal plan. With simple seasonings and proper baking, you’ll have juicy chicken every time. Whether served fresh from the oven or packed for meal prep, this recipe is a staple you’ll return to again and again.

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