Oven Baked Chicken Breast (Printable Version)

Tender, juicy chicken breasts baked with savory spices for an easy protein-packed dinner ready in 35 minutes.

# What You Need:

→ Chicken

01 - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 6 to 8 ounces each

→ Seasoning

02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
04 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
05 - 1 teaspoon paprika, smoked or sweet
06 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
07 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
08 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

→ Garnish

09 - Lemon slices, optional
10 - Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro, optional

→ Simple Marinade

11 - 1/4 cup olive oil, optional
12 - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, optional
13 - 2 tablespoons soy sauce, optional
14 - 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup, optional
15 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, optional
16 - 1 clove garlic, minced, optional
17 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, optional

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking dish.
02 - Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Place between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper and gently pound to even thickness of approximately 3/4 inch using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
03 - In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper until evenly mixed.
04 - Rub seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of each chicken breast. For enhanced flavor, optional marination in Simple Marinade for 30 minutes to 2 hours in refrigerator is recommended; pat dry before seasoning.
05 - Arrange chicken breasts in a single layer on prepared baking sheet, ensuring adequate spacing without crowding.
06 - Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest portion reaches 165°F.
07 - Remove from oven and allow to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with lemon slices and fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Juicy Results: The technique of pounding the meat ensures even cooking and maximum moisture.
  • Quick Prep: Takes only 10 minutes to prepare before heading into the oven.
  • Healthy & Lean: High in protein, gluten-free, and dairy-free.
  • Meal Prep Hero: Slices easily for salads, sandwiches, or grain bowls.
02 -
  • Resting is Key: Don't skip the 5-minute rest period; it allows the juices to redistribute so they don't run out when you slice.
  • Dry the Meat: Patting the chicken dry with paper towels helps the oil and spices stick better for a better crust.
  • Even Thickness: Pounding the meat ensures the thin end doesn't dry out while the thick end is still cooking.
  • Storage: Store cooled chicken in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days for easy meal prep.
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