Easy Baked Chicken Breasts
This is the most popular of all chicken breast recipes that I’ve ever published. It’s a JUICY Oven Baked Chicken Breast sprinkled with a magic simple seasoning then baked until caramelised. I t’s simple, fast and incredibly tasty!
An incredibly easy chicken recipe that’s a reader favourite alongside Honey Garlic Chicken, this epic Parmesan Crusted Chicken and crispy Garlic Chicken. You’re going to love it!
A JUICY Baked Chicken Breast!
Though I always stand firm that brown meat is better than white – more flavour, more juiciness – lean chicken breast is a regular in my shopping trolley, week after week.
So today, I’m sharing my recipe for how I make Oven Baked Chicken Breast.
We can never have too many really great quick chicken breast recipes!”
As simple as it sounds, if you wack a seasoned breast in the oven without thought, the chances are you’ll be chewing your way through dry chicken, furiously squirting over copious amounts of ketchup to try to salvage it.
It doesn’t need to be that way. Enter – a fabulous simple, magic chicken seasoning for baked chicken breast:
The Chicken Breast Seasoning
Made with just brown sugar, paprika, oregano, garlic powder, salt and pepper, the secret ingredient in this is brown sugar:
- Makes more seasoning, so you can coat the breast thoroughly and give it a beautiful crust without overpowering it with lots of spices that need longer to cook than chicken breast does; and
- Makes it juicy – the chicken sweats while it bakes, so you end up with wetness that makes the chicken more juicy than the usual baked chicken breast.
Yes it adds sweetness but don’t worry, this baked chicken breast is still savoury!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a game-changer for those who love a quick, easy, and delicious meal. The simple seasoning transforms the ordinary chicken breast into a juicy, flavorful dish that’s sure to impress. Plus, it’s versatile enough for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering!
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking dish
- Parchment paper
Ingredients
- Butter or olive oil
- 1 or more boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper
- Other spices or seasonings (such as paprika, oregano, garlic powder)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat the oven to 400°F and prepare the pan: Heat the oven to 400°F with a rack in the middle position. Rub the pan and one side of the parchment paper with butter or olive oil; this prevents the chicken from sticking.
- Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken dry and rub with a little butter or olive oil, if desired. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and any other favorite seasonings.
- Transfer to the baking dish: Place the chicken breasts in the baking dish, spaced slightly apart. You can also tuck herbs or lemon wedges around the chicken for extra flavor.
- Cover with the parchment: Lay the parchment, butter-side down, over the chicken. Tuck the edges into the pan and press the parchment down so that it’s snug around the chicken. The chicken breasts should be completely covered with the parchment.
- Bake for 30 to 40 minutes: Transfer the chicken to the oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes, until the chicken is completely opaque all the way through and registers 165°F on an instant-read thermometer.
- Serve: Serve the chicken immediately, or let it cool and refrigerate for up to a week.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the chicken breasts are of even thickness for uniform cooking.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to lock in juices.
Additional Tips or Variations
Try adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving for an extra burst of flavor. You can also experiment with different spice blends to suit your taste.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Calories: Approximately 200
Protein: 38g
Fat: 5g
Carbohydrates: 2g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can! Just adjust the cooking time as needed because thighs may take a bit longer to cook.
How can I tell if the chicken is done?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is no longer pink inside.
Conclusion
There you have it—an easy baked chicken breast recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. I invite you to try this recipe and share your experiences. Happy cooking!
