This oven-baked chicken breast is a game-changer for easy weeknight dinners. The combination of olive oil, brown sugar, and a mix of spices creates a deliciously seasoned coating, while a dab of butter helps the chicken bake to juicy perfection. It’s the perfect balance of flavors and makes for a crowd-pleasing dish. Whether you’re prepping meals for the week, looking for a quick entrée, or just need a healthy and simple dinner idea, this recipe has you covered. Pair it with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad, and enjoy a flavorful, satisfying meal without much fuss!
Full Recipe:
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.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 225 kcal per serving | Servings: 6 servings
A Versatile and Flavorful Classic
Oven-baked chicken breast is a staple recipe that every home cook should have in their culinary arsenal. It’s quick, easy to prepare, and endlessly versatile – making it ideal for busy weeknight dinners, meal prep for the week, or even special occasions when you need a reliable, crowd-pleasing dish. This recipe emphasizes simplicity while ensuring the chicken is juicy, tender, and full of flavor. With a little bit of seasoning and just a few ingredients, you can transform plain chicken breast into a mouthwatering entrée that’s sure to impress.
Why Oven-Baked Chicken Breast?
Chicken breast is one of the leanest sources of protein available, making it a favorite among those looking to maintain a balanced diet without compromising on flavor or nutrition. However, one common complaint with chicken breast is that it can easily become dry and bland when cooked improperly. Baking the chicken in the oven is one of the most foolproof ways to achieve a juicy, flavorful result every time.
This recipe addresses the challenges of cooking chicken breast by using a few techniques to keep it moist and flavorful. Flattening the chicken to an even thickness ensures that it cooks evenly, while a light rub of olive oil, butter, and seasonings provides a delicious coating. The result is a well-seasoned, tender, and juicy chicken breast that’s perfect for serving as a main dish or adding to a variety of other meals.
The Secret to Flavorful and Juicy Chicken
The key to making oven-baked chicken breast truly delicious lies in the seasoning and preparation. By pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness, you prevent overcooking in certain areas while ensuring the entire piece is cooked to perfection. Additionally, the use of olive oil helps to lock in moisture, while a dab of butter adds richness and enhances the overall flavor. The combination of brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, ground paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper provides a flavorful crust that pairs well with a variety of side dishes.
Unlike other methods of cooking chicken breast, baking in the oven allows the chicken to cook evenly and gently. High-heat cooking methods like grilling or pan-searing can cause the exterior of the chicken to dry out quickly, while the oven’s indirect heat keeps the chicken juicy throughout. Furthermore, this recipe’s suggestion to finish the chicken under the broiler adds a touch of caramelization and enhances the flavor profile by giving it a slight crispness on the outside.
Nutritional Benefits and Dietary Adaptability
One of the biggest advantages of this recipe is that it’s not only delicious but also aligns well with many dietary preferences. Chicken breast is naturally low in fat and high in protein, making it suitable for low-carb, keto, gluten-free, and high-protein diets. Each serving contains roughly 225 calories, 32 grams of protein, and only 8 grams of fat, making it an excellent choice for those who want a nutrient-dense, filling meal without extra calories.
Moreover, the recipe can easily be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs. If you’re looking to cut down on fats, you can skip the butter or use a plant-based substitute for a dairy-free version. You can also customize the seasonings to suit your palate – try adding smoked paprika for a smoky kick, cayenne for some heat, or lemon zest for a bright, fresh note.
Perfect for Meal Prep and Leftovers
This oven-baked chicken breast recipe is excellent for meal prepping. You can bake a batch of chicken breasts at the start of the week and use them in various dishes throughout the week. The cooked chicken stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a convenient and time-saving option for those who want quick, protein-rich meals ready to go.
The versatility of this chicken breast is one of its most appealing qualities. You can slice it over salads, dice it for tacos or burritos, shred it for casseroles, or add it to soups and pasta dishes. It can be enjoyed hot or cold, making it a great option for both packed lunches and reheatable dinners. Some favorite ways to use leftover oven-baked chicken breast include making a chicken Caesar salad, chicken quesadillas, chicken pot pie, or even a classic chicken sandwich.
Serving Suggestions and Side Pairings
The beauty of this oven-baked chicken breast recipe is that it pairs well with a wide range of side dishes, making it a versatile entrée for any occasion. For a classic pairing, serve it alongside mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables such as carrots, asparagus, or broccoli. If you’re in the mood for something more flavorful, consider pairing it with risotto, flavored rice pilaf, or creamy pasta. You can also serve the chicken over a bed of sautéed greens or with a fresh garden salad for a lighter meal.
To keep things interesting, you can change up the sides depending on the season. For instance, serve the chicken with grilled corn and tomato salad in the summer, or pair it with roasted root vegetables in the winter. You can also use different sauces and condiments to change up the flavors – try drizzling it with a lemon herb sauce, balsamic glaze, or barbecue sauce for a unique twist.
A Recipe for Any Occasion
Whether you’re making dinner for a family of four or cooking for a larger group, this oven-baked chicken breast recipe is a reliable and crowd-pleasing choice. Its simple preparation means you can whip it up in no time, yet it’s flavorful and impressive enough to serve to guests. You can easily double or triple the recipe to accommodate more servings, and the hands-off cooking process allows you to prepare other dishes or sides while the chicken is baking.
The recipe is also great for meal-prepping enthusiasts or those who want to plan their weekly meals in advance. Having pre-cooked, versatile chicken breast on hand makes it easier to build balanced, nutritious meals throughout the week without having to spend extra time in the kitchen each day.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Oven-Baked Chicken Breast
- Don’t Skip the Pounding Step: Flattening the chicken breasts to an even thickness helps ensure even cooking and prevents overcooking in thinner areas. This simple step makes a big difference in achieving a tender, juicy result.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To guarantee perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This helps avoid undercooked or overcooked chicken and ensures food safety.
- Customize the Seasonings: Feel free to get creative with the seasoning blend. While the recipe’s mix of brown sugar, paprika, garlic, and Italian herbs creates a flavorful crust, you can try different combinations to suit your preferences.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is tender and moist.
Conclusion:
Oven-baked chicken breast is a timeless recipe that proves you don’t need complicated techniques or a long list of ingredients to create a flavorful, satisfying meal. This dish’s simplicity makes it a go-to option for busy weeknights, meal-prepping, or whenever you need a protein-rich meal that’s quick to prepare and easy to pair with various sides. Whether you’re looking to serve it as a main entrée, incorporate it into salads and sandwiches, or shred it for casseroles and tacos, this oven-baked chicken breast is guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen.
Try this recipe today, and discover just how easy and delicious oven-baked chicken breast can be. Enjoy the balance of flavors, the tender and juicy texture, and the convenience of having a meal that fits seamlessly into your busy lifestyle.
