Description
Learn how to bake juicy, tender chicken breasts every time with this simple and reliable recipe. Perfect for weeknight meals!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 – 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2–3 large breasts)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)
- Optional: Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme sprigs, lemon slices
Instructions
- 1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
- 2. Remove chicken breasts from the refrigerator about 20-30 minutes prior to cooking.
- 3. Trim any excess fat and pat the chicken breasts thoroughly dry with paper towels.
- 4. Place the chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil or avocado oil.
- 5. In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Sprinkle evenly over both sides of the chicken.
- 6. Add any optional herbs or lemon slices onto the baking sheet.
- 7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer registers 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast.
- 8. Let the chicken rest on the baking sheet for 5-10 minutes before slicing or serving.
Notes
Store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the oven, microwave, or skillet with a little added liquid to maintain moisture. Can be frozen for 2-3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 breast
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g