Introduction
Welcome to a delightful journey of flavor with these Oven Baked Chicken Breasts! This recipe serves up juicy, tender chicken, seasoned to perfection, that is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it alongside a fresh garden salad or your favorite roasted vegetables, this dish promises to deliver a burst of flavor with every bite. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or a weekend meal prep. Let’s dive into the delightful details!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix these tantalizing spices well to create a fragrant seasoning blend.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels, ensuring they are free of excess moisture. Place the chicken in the prepared baking dish.
- Drizzle the olive oil and fresh lemon juice evenly over the chicken breasts, allowing the rich flavors to infuse the meat.
- Sprinkle the seasoning mixture generously over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated for maximum flavor.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), signaling that it’s cooked through and safe to eat.
- Once cooked, remove the dish from the oven and cover it with aluminum foil. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes; this step locks in all those wonderful juices.
- Just before serving, garnish the chicken with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a touch of color and a burst of freshness.
Notes or Tips
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the olive oil and lemon juice mixture for 30 minutes before baking.
- Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste preferences—experiment with adding a pinch of cayenne for a kick!
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of quinoa, rice, or steamed vegetables.
Cooking Techniques
To achieve the perfect oven-baked chicken, it’s important to understand a few key techniques:
- Resting: Always let your chicken rest after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in moist and flavorful meat.
- Marination: Marinating the chicken even briefly can significantly enhance its flavor profile and tenderness.
- Temperature Checking: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is cooked to the perfect temperature—this is the best way to avoid dry chicken.
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are delicious and will be even more tender due to their higher fat content.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It can also be frozen for longer storage.
Can I cook this dish on the grill?
Yes, you can use the same seasoning and grill the chicken breasts over medium heat until fully cooked!
Conclusion
This Oven Baked Chicken Breast recipe is not only simple and quick but also bursting with bold flavors that elevate any mealtime. With the right spices and cooking techniques, you can create a dish that is both satisfying and wholesome. Whether you make it for a busy weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, your family and friends will be asking for seconds. Enjoy your delicious creation!