Description
A simple and tender oven-baked chicken breast recipe that’s quick to prepare and full of comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each) — patted dry
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or oregano
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Optional: 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Arrange the chicken breasts on a cutting board and cover with plastic wrap. Flatten gently with a meat mallet.
- Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and thyme in a small bowl.
- Brush the mixture over both sides of each chicken breast and let them rest for 5 minutes.
- Place the chicken breasts on a lightly oiled baking sheet.
- Dot each breast with a small piece of butter, if using.
- Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer reads 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Notes
For variations, try adding lemon zest or spices like cayenne for extra flavor. Pair with sides like mashed potatoes or a salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 50g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
Keywords: chicken, easy dinner, weeknight meal, oven baked chicken, family friendly, gluten-free