Name: Oven-Baked Chicken Breast
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon light brown sugar; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 2 teaspoons onion powder; 1 teaspoon ground paprika; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 tablespoon butter, diced

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This oven-baked chicken breast recipe is perfect for quick and flavorful weeknight dinners. A mix of olive oil, brown sugar, and spices creates a deliciously seasoned coating, while a touch of butter ensures the chicken remains juicy and tender. Pair it with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare.

Ingredients

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon light brown sugar
2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons onion powder
1 teaspoon ground paprika
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
1 tablespoon butter, diced

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish.
Place the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap. Using a rolling pin or the flat side of a mallet, pound the chicken to an even thickness, about 0.5–0.75 inches.
Rub olive oil all over the flattened chicken breasts.
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, ground paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly on both sides of the chicken breasts.
Arrange the seasoned chicken in the prepared casserole dish. Top each chicken breast with a dab of butter.
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reads 165°F (74°C). Optionally, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes to add some browning.
Serve immediately for the juiciest and most flavorful results.

Nutrition Information

Calories: 225 kcal per serving
Servings: 6 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

this Recipe

Oven-Baked Chicken Breast: The Go-To Recipe for Busy Weeknights

Chicken breast is one of the most versatile and widely loved proteins around the world. However, it often gets a bad rap for being dry or bland. This oven-baked chicken breast recipe flips that narrative, delivering a dish that’s juicy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or need a quick weeknight meal, this recipe ensures your chicken is anything but boring.

Why This Recipe Works

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and thoughtful preparation. Here’s why it stands out:

Balanced Seasoning

The combination of olive oil, brown sugar, and spices forms a flavorful crust on the chicken breast. Olive oil ensures the spices adhere well, while the brown sugar caramelizes slightly during baking, enhancing the savory flavors with a hint of sweetness. Paprika adds depth, garlic and onion powder provide an aromatic base, and Italian seasoning introduces subtle herbaceous notes.

Juicy and Tender Texture

Boneless, skinless chicken breast can be tricky to cook because it tends to dry out if overcooked. This recipe addresses that issue with two key techniques:

Even Thickness: Pounding the chicken to an even thickness ensures consistent cooking, so the thinner edges don’t dry out before the center is fully cooked.
Butter Finish: Adding small pats of butter to the chicken before baking introduces extra moisture, keeping the meat tender and rich.

Quick and Convenient

With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a cook time of 20 minutes, this recipe is a time-saver. The minimal ingredients and straightforward method make it ideal for busy schedules. You’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.

The Appeal of Oven-Baked Chicken Breast

Chicken breast often serves as a blank canvas for culinary creativity. Its neutral flavor makes it the perfect base for a wide variety of seasonings and cooking techniques. Baking the chicken instead of frying not only makes it healthier but also reduces the mess and effort required.

This recipe strikes a perfect balance between wholesome nutrition and indulgent taste. It’s a dish that can be dressed up for a dinner party or kept simple for a casual meal at home.

Customizing the Recipe

One of the best aspects of this oven-baked chicken breast recipe is its adaptability. Here are a few ways you can customize it to suit your preferences:

Change Up the Seasoning

Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes for heat.
Mediterranean Flair: Use oregano, thyme, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Smoky Flavor: Substitute smoked paprika for regular paprika.

Marinades for Deeper Flavor

If you have extra time, marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and your favorite spices for a few hours before baking. This step enhances the flavor and makes the chicken even more succulent.

Glazing Options

Consider brushing the chicken with a glaze in the final minutes of baking. Honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or teriyaki glaze can complement the spices and create a beautiful caramelized finish.

Serving Suggestions

This oven-baked chicken breast pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes, making it a versatile centerpiece for your meal. Here are some ideas:

Classic Pairings

Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, and Brussels sprouts roasted with olive oil and a touch of garlic make for a nutritious and colorful side.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a comforting choice that balances the seasoning of the chicken.
Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, savory chicken.

Healthy Alternatives

Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb substitute for regular rice that soaks up the chicken’s juices beautifully.
Quinoa: Packed with protein and fiber, quinoa is a nutritious side that pairs well with the bold flavors of the chicken.
Zucchini Noodles: Light and fresh, these noodles are a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your meal.

Gourmet Touches

Herbed Butter Rice: Cook your rice with butter and fresh herbs like parsley or dill for an elevated side dish.
Garlic Bread: Toasted bread with a hint of garlic and parsley makes for a comforting addition to the meal.
Stuffed Peppers: Fill bell peppers with a mix of grains, cheese, and spices to create a complementary dish with visual appeal.

Tips for Perfect Oven-Baked Chicken Breast

Monitor Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This guarantees the chicken is fully cooked without being overdone.
Rest Before Serving: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
Broil for Browning: If you prefer a slightly crispy exterior, switch on the broiler for 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking.

Nutrition and Health Benefits

Chicken breast is a lean source of protein, making it a great choice for a healthy diet. It’s low in fat and calories while being rich in essential nutrients like B vitamins, phosphorus, and selenium. Paired with olive oil, a heart-healthy fat, and nutrient-dense spices, this recipe aligns with a balanced eating plan.

Conclusion

This oven-baked chicken breast recipe is more than just a quick meal—it’s a testament to how simple ingredients and thoughtful techniques can transform an everyday protein into a show-stopping dish. With its juicy texture, bold flavor, and endless customization options, it’s a recipe you’ll find yourself coming back to time and time again.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal-prepping for the week, or impressing guests, this recipe ticks all the boxes. Add it to your repertoire, and you’ll never look at chicken breast the same way again.

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Oven-Baked Chicken Breast