Simple Oven Baked Chicken Breast Recipe

If you’re looking for a recipe that’s foolproof, family-friendly, and undeniably delicious, look no further than this Simple Oven Baked Chicken Breast. With just a handful of pantry staples, this meal turns humble chicken into a juicy, golden main dish bursting with flavor. Whether you’re a busy weeknight cook or planning a no-fuss dinner for friends, you’ll love the sheer ease and crowd-pleasing taste of this classic favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Simple Oven Baked Chicken Breast is that it relies on straightforward, honest ingredients you likely already have. Each one plays its own special part, from flavor to moisture to that gorgeous roasted color you crave. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

• Chicken Breasts (3 pounds): The star of the show! Thick, boneless, skinless cuts will stay moist when baked and serve a hungry crew.
• Butter (3 tablespoons, melted): Adds richness and helps brown and flavor the chicken beautifully.
• Garlic (1 tablespoon, minced): Infuses the chicken with a wonderful, savory aroma—don’t skip this!
• Paprika (1 teaspoon): For a touch of color and smoky sweetness on each bite.
• Onion Powder (1 teaspoon): Deepens the savory flavor profile—great for balancing the seasonings.
• Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon): Double up on garlicky goodness with this easy-to-blend powder.
• Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for highlighting all the other flavors—taste as you go!
• Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Brings a gentle, peppery kick that makes every bite pop.

How to Make Simple Oven Baked Chicken Breast

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. This moderate temperature ensures the chicken cooks through evenly, staying juicy instead of drying out. Spray a 9-by-13 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray so cleanup is a breeze and the chicken doesn’t stick as it bakes to succulent perfection.

Step 2: Arrange and Butter the Chicken

Lay the chicken breasts in the greased dish, letting them nestle close but not overlap. In a small bowl, blend the melted butter with your minced garlic. Now comes the fun part: drizzle this tantalizing mixture all over the chicken, turning each piece to make sure every surface gets some of that buttery, garlicky goodness.

Step 3: Mix and Sprinkle Seasonings

In another small bowl, combine the paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper—this blend is the secret behind the crave-worthy crust on your Simple Oven Baked Chicken Breast. Sprinkle the mix generously over both sides of the chicken, patting it on so it sticks and seasons every nook and cranny.

Step 4: Bake to Juicy Perfection

Pop the baking dish in your preheated oven and let the magic happen. Depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts, bake for 20 to 35 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165 degrees Fahrenheit. The aroma will let you know you’re on the right track!

Step 5: Rest, Drizzle, and Serve

Remove the dish from the oven and, using a spoon, baste each chicken breast with the golden pan juices. Rest the chicken for about 5 minutes so the juices redistribute—you’ll be rewarded with slices that are juicy and tender, not dry. Now you’re ready to feast!

How to Serve Simple Oven Baked Chicken Breast

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives makes your Simple Oven Baked Chicken Breast look as irresistible as it tastes. For an extra pop, add a few grinds of black pepper or a scattering of lemon zest right before serving—it’s a small step that brings big, fresh flavor.

Side Dishes

Pair your chicken with fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad. Simple sides soak up those savory juices, making each bite harmonious. Don’t be afraid to keep it classic; the familiar, cozy flavors let the chicken shine.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the chicken and fan out the pieces on a platter for a gorgeous family-style meal, or serve whole breasts atop a bed of grains or greens for effortless elegance. Leftovers make wonderful sandwiches or wraps—just tuck slices into pita with crunchy veggies and a dollop of sauce for a fresh new spin.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool any leftovers promptly, then transfer your Simple Oven Baked Chicken Breast to an airtight container and chill in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to four days, making lunch or dinner prep a total breeze later in the week.

Freezing

Want to stockpile easy protein for the future? Let the chicken cool, then wrap each breast individually or store all together in a freezer bag (get as much air out as possible). Label and freeze for up to three months—a lifesaver for those busy nights!

Reheating

To keep the chicken moist when reheating, cover with foil and warm in a 325 degree oven until heated through, or microwave gently with a splash of broth. Slicing the meat before reheating also helps it warm evenly and stays juicy.

FAQs

How do I keep the chicken from drying out?

The key is not overbaking—use a thermometer and pull your Simple Oven Baked Chicken Breast from the oven as soon as it hits 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Letting the chicken rest also locks in those delicious juices.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

For best results, thaw the chicken completely before baking. This ensures everything cooks evenly and you get that perfect texture and flavor in every slice.

Can I use this recipe for bone-in chicken breasts?

Absolutely, just note that bone-in pieces take longer to cook. Check for doneness with a thermometer and adjust the baking time as needed.

How do I make the chicken even more flavorful?

You can marinate the chicken in the butter and garlic mixture for a couple of hours before baking, or add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and some chopped herbs to the seasoning blend for extra layers of flavor.

Is this Simple Oven Baked Chicken Breast recipe good for meal prep?

Definitely! This recipe is a meal prep dream, as the chicken holds up beautifully in the fridge and is tasty hot or cold, sliced into salads, grain bowls, sandwiches, or wraps all week long.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready for a dish that guarantees smiles at the dinner table, you simply must try this Simple Oven Baked Chicken Breast. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll keep coming back to, thanks to its effortless prep and irresistible results. Give it a go—you won’t be disappointed!

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