When it comes to juicy, flavorful chicken breasts, this oven-baked recipe is the way to go! Perfectly seasoned with a blend of spices and a touch of butter, these chicken breasts come out tender, moist, and just the right amount of crispy. Whether you’re prepping for a family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe has you covered with its simple, foolproof method.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes with minimal prep.
- Perfectly Juicy: Flattening the chicken and adding a dab of butter keeps the meat moist and tender.
- Customizable Flavor: Use the seasonings as a base and get creative with your own spice blend.
- Great for Meal Prep: These baked chicken breasts can be sliced, diced, and used in multiple meals throughout the week.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: 2 pounds, boneless and skinless, flattened for even cooking.
- Olive oil: Adds moisture and helps the seasoning stick.
- Light brown sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness and helps with browning.
- Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper: The perfect blend of spices for a well-rounded flavor.
- Butter: A small slice on each breast adds flavor and keeps them juicy.
Variations
- Swap the Butter: Use olive oil instead if you prefer, though you may lose a bit of richness.
- Add Spice: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the seasoning.
- Use Different Cuts: This recipe also works well with chicken thighs or drumsticks; just adjust the cooking time.
How to Make the Recipe
1. Prep the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Next, place each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap. Using a rolling pin or the flat side of a meat mallet, gently pound the chicken to a thickness of 0.5 to 0.75 inches. This step ensures even cooking and helps prevent dry spots.
2. Season the Chicken
Rub each flattened chicken breast with olive oil. In a small bowl, mix together the light brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle the seasoning mix over both sides of the chicken breasts, lightly rubbing it in for maximum flavor.
3. Bake to Perfection
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared casserole dish. Top each piece with a small slice of butter to add extra moisture and richness. Bake at 400°F for about 18-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. For a golden finish, pop the chicken under the broiler for 1-3 minutes until nicely browned.
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Don’t Skip the Flattening: Flattening the chicken ensures even cooking and helps prevent overcooking.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: This is the best way to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F without drying it out.
- Broil for Color: Broiling at the end gives the chicken a beautiful golden color and a slightly crispy top.
How to Serve
Serve this oven-baked chicken with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a fresh garden salad. It also works great in sandwiches, wraps, and salads for easy meal prep options.
Make Ahead
- To Refrigerate: Store the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven to maintain moisture.
- To Freeze: Allow the chicken to cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.
- Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat as needed.
FAQs
1. Can I use other seasonings?
Absolutely! Feel free to add or swap out spices based on your preferences. Cajun seasoning, lemon pepper, or a hint of rosemary would all work well.
2. Can I skip the butter?
Yes, but the butter adds moisture and flavor, so it’s recommended. If you want to skip it, brush a bit of extra olive oil on top.
3. How do I keep the chicken from drying out?
Flattening the chicken, baking at a high temperature, and using a meat thermometer to check doneness are key to keeping the chicken juicy.
4. What other cuts of chicken can I use?
This recipe works with thighs, drumsticks, or even bone-in breasts. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Conclusion
This Oven Baked Chicken Breast recipe is quick, easy, and deliciously juicy! With a simple spice rub and a touch of butter, you’ll get tender, flavorful chicken every time. Perfect for a busy weeknight or meal prep, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen. Enjoy!