January 29, 2025

oven baked chicken breast recipe

Oven Baked Chicken Breast Recipe

If you’re looking to whip up a delicious and healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen, this oven-baked chicken breast recipe is just the ticket. It’s quick and easy, allowing you to enjoy juicy chicken seasoned to perfection. With just a few simple steps and ingredients, you’ll be on your way to a satisfying dinner. Let’s take a closer look at the cooking process and some tips to guarantee your chicken turns out great every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

When you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal, this oven-baked chicken breast recipe is perfect. It’s fast and easy to prepare, taking just 20 minutes. You only need a few simple ingredients, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

With 31 grams of protein and low fat, it supports your nutritional needs, helping you feel full and satisfied. The chicken turns out juicy and flavorful, especially when pounded for even cooking and seasoned with spices like paprika and garlic. You can also add lemon slices or butter for extra taste. Additionally, cooking it at 450 degrees Fahrenheit ensures that the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature while remaining tender.

Plus, it’s versatile; serve it with veggies, grains, or use it in salads. You can refrigerate leftovers for five days, making meal prep a breeze.

History

Baked chicken has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to ancient times. Early civilizations roasted or baked meat over fire, laying the groundwork for this beloved dish.

In ancient Rome, a popular dish called “pullum frontonianum” featured chicken breasts filled with a mix of meat, herbs, and spices. This early example of stuffing meat showcased the creativity and ingenuity of ancient chefs.

During medieval Europe, chefs often used capons, which were tender and surplus to egg production needs. A 14th-century recipe, “Chicken Endored,” involved roasting chicken with a batter made from egg yolks, flour, and spices.

Over the centuries, baking techniques evolved from spit-roasting to using ovens.

Today, baked chicken recipes reflect global influences, simplifying methods while incorporating a variety of seasonings for unique flavors.

Recipe

Ingredients:
– 4 to 5 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
– Olive oil
– Italian seasoning
– Kosher salt
– Black pepper
– Garlic powder
– Onion powder
– Paprika

Cooking Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven is heating, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.

In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Mix well to create a seasoning blend.
Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and toss them in the seasoning mixture until they’re evenly coated. Confirm the chicken is well covered with the spices for maximum flavor.
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they aren’t touching each other.
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 20 to 26 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.

For the best results when cooking oven-baked chicken breast, be sure to use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.

Additionally, resting the chicken after baking is essential for achieving a tender texture.

Experiment with different seasonings and marinades to find your favorite flavor combinations, and feel free to serve the chicken with your favorite sides or incorporate it into salads, wraps, or pasta dishes for added variety.

Final Thoughts

Cooking chicken breast in the oven can be a simple and rewarding way to prepare a healthy meal. This dish isn’t only tasty but also packed with nutrition. A 3-ounce serving offers around 150 calories and is rich in protein, making it an excellent choice for those looking to meet their dietary needs. Moderate fat content in the chicken can also contribute to a balanced diet. High-protein meals can help you feel full longer, which is great for weight management.

To enhance flavor, consider pounding the chicken for even cooking and using seasonings like garlic powder and paprika. Remember, olive oil can keep the chicken moist. With its health benefits and easy preparation, oven-baked chicken breast is a delicious option for any meal. Enjoy your cooking!

FAQ

You might’ve some questions about making the perfect oven-baked chicken breast.

First, bake your chicken at 400°F for 22 to 26 minutes, or at 425°F for 18 to 20 minutes. Always check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to guarantee it’s safe.

To prevent dryness, avoid overcooking. Pounding your chicken to an even thickness helps with even cooking.

Make certain to dry the chicken before seasoning it, and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. Use a preheated oven and a lined baking sheet for best results.

After cooking, let your chicken rest to keep it juicy. Remember, cutting against the grain helps retain moisture, too!