Baked Chicken Breasts Recipe

Baked chicken breasts are a kitchen staple—quick, easy, and incredibly versatile. This recipe ensures tender, juicy chicken breasts with a golden, flavorful crust. Whether you’re serving them as a main dish, slicing them into salads, or shredding them for tacos, these baked chicken breasts will become your go-to recipe!

Equipment:

• Baking dish or sheet pan
• Parchment paper or aluminum foil
• Meat thermometer
• Small bowl
• Basting brush
• Measuring spoons

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish or sheet pan with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
   • Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This helps the seasonings stick and prevents steaming in the oven.
3. Season the Chicken:
   • In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
   • Brush or rub the mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Bake the Chicken:
   • Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish, ensuring they are not touching for even cooking.
   • Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.
5. Rest the Chicken:
   • Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and flavorful.
6. Serve:
   • Serve the baked chicken breasts as is, or slice, dice, or shred them for other dishes.

Tips:

• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for 30 minutes in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and your favorite spices before baking.
• Use chicken breasts of similar size to ensure even cooking.
• Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of honey before baking for a tasty variation.

Baked chicken breasts are a simple yet satisfying option for any meal. With this easy recipe, you’ll achieve perfectly cooked chicken that’s tender, juicy, and full of flavor. Pair it with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete and healthy dinner. Enjoy!