Oven Baked Chicken Breasts

The first time I made oven baked chicken breasts properly, I stood in my kitchen at 7pm on a Tuesday, exhausted from work but determined to figure out why my chicken always turned out dry and tough. That night changed everything once I learned the simple secrets of temperature and timing. Now these juicy chicken breasts are my go-to dinner when I need something satisfying but dont have the energy for anything complicated.

Last month my sister came over for dinner and kept asking what I did differently because the chicken was actually tender. I told her it was just the high heat and proper seasoning, but she insisted there must be some secret. Watching her take that first bite and seeing her eyes light up reminded me why simple recipes done well are often the most impressive.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: Look for ones that are similar in thickness so they cook evenly
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: This helps the seasoning stick and keeps the chicken moist inside
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for flavor and bringing out the natural chicken taste
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground makes a noticeable difference
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Distributes more evenly than fresh garlic and wont burn
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Gives a subtle smoky flavor and beautiful golden color
• ½ teaspoon onion powder: Adds depth without any noticeable onion texture
• ½ teaspoon dried Italian herbs: Oregano, basil, and thyme work perfectly together
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Makes the dish look finished and adds fresh color
• Lemon wedges: A squeeze of bright acid cuts through the richness beautifully

Instructions

Preheat the oven:

Crank your oven to 425°F and prepare your baking dish with a light coating of oil or parchment paper

Prep the chicken:

Pat the chicken completely dry with paper towels because excess moisture creates steam instead of golden color

Season generously:

Drizzle with olive oil and massage in all those spices until every piece is evenly coated

Arrange for success:

Lay the chicken in a single layer without overcrowding so hot air can circulate properly

Bake to perfection:

Cook for 18 to 22 minutes until the internal temperature hits exactly 165°F when tested in the thickest part

Rest before serving:

Let the chicken sit for 5 minutes so the juices redistribute throughout the meat

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Sunday dinner at my parents house used to mean overcooked chicken that we drowned in sauce to make it edible. Now when I visit and make this recipe, my dad admits he actually looks forward to chicken night. Its funny how the simplest improvements can completely transform a family meal.

Getting That Restaurant Finish

I learned that restaurants often use higher heat than home cooks expect, which creates that gorgeous golden exterior while keeping the inside juicy. The 425°F temperature might seem aggressive but trust the process.

Make It Your Own

Sometimes I add a pinch of red pepper flakes when I want some warmth, or swap the smoked paprika for regular if Im not feeling the smoky flavor. The beauty of this recipe is how well it adapts to whatever youre craving.

Timing Is Everything

Chicken thickness varies wildly between packages, which is why the time range is 18 to 22 minutes instead of one exact number. I always check at 18 minutes because overcooked chicken dries out quickly.

• Set a timer for 18 minutes even if you think it needs longer
• Check the temperature in the thickest part not near any bones
• Remember the chicken keeps cooking slightly while it rests

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Perfect chicken breasts are one of those kitchen skills that seems basic but makes every meal better. Once you nail this technique, youll find yourself making it more often than you expect.

Common Recipe Questions

→ How do I ensure chicken breasts stay juicy when baking?

Pat chicken dry and marinate or coat with olive oil and seasonings before baking. Resting after baking helps juices redistribute for tenderness.

→ What temperature should the oven be set for baking chicken breasts?

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) for even cooking and a juicy interior with a nicely browned exterior.

→ Can I swap the herbs used in the seasoning?

Yes, you can replace Italian herbs with other dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to suit your flavor preferences.

→ Is it necessary to use an instant-read thermometer?

Using a thermometer ensures the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) while avoiding overcooking.

→ What sides pair well with baked chicken breasts?

Roasted vegetables, fresh salads, or rice complement the savory flavors and make a balanced meal.