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Juicy Oven-Baked Chicken Breast

This baked chicken breast recipe involves seasoning lean chicken with herbs and spices, then roasting it in the oven until perfectly tender and juicy. The process emphasizes handling and temperature control to achieve a golden-brown exterior with a moist interior, resulting in a versatile and reliable main dish.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: General
Calories: 220
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces chicken breasts skinless, boneless preferred
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground if possible
  • 1 teaspoon dried herbs parsley, thyme, or rosemary
  • 1 lemon lemon for juice and zest
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder or minced fresh garlic
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika smoked paprika for smoky flavor

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Meat thermometer
  • Basting brush
  • Kitchen Tongs

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps them sear and bake evenly.
  3. Rub the chicken all over with olive oil, making sure each piece is coated evenly to lock in moisture.
  4. Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and dried herbs to taste, ensuring the spices stick well to the oil-coated meat.
  5. Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece for even heat circulation.
  6. Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meat is golden brown and a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 75°C (165°F).
  7. While baking, halve the lemon and squeeze fresh juice over the chicken once it comes out of the oven for a bright, zesty flavor.
  8. Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes on a cutting board, tented loosely with foil if desired, to let the juices redistribute.
  9. Slice the chicken against the grain, observing the juicy, tender interior and golden crust on the outside.
  10. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, garnished with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon for added brightness.