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The Ultimate Juicy Baked Chicken Breast: Foolproof Oven Method with Simple Seasoning

Close-up of perfectly cooked baked chicken breast, seasoned and cut to show the moist white interior.
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Follow this simple, foolproof method to bake chicken breasts in the oven so they come out perfectly tender and juicy every time. This recipe uses basic seasoning for a versatile, healthy dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6–8 oz each)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter (optional, for extra flavor)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
  2. Pat the chicken breasts completely dry using paper towels. This step helps the seasoning adhere and promotes better browning.
  3. In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and oregano to create your seasoning mix.
  4. Rub the olive oil over all surfaces of the chicken breasts. Then, evenly coat each breast with the seasoning mix.
  5. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. If using, drizzle the melted butter over the tops of the breasts.
  6. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes. The exact time depends on the thickness of your chicken.
  7. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken is done when it reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius) at the thickest part.
  8. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest on a cutting board for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender.

Notes

  • For extra juicy results, you can briefly soak the chicken breasts in a saltwater brine (1 tablespoon salt per 1 cup water) for 15 minutes before seasoning and baking. Pat dry thoroughly after brining.
  • If your chicken breasts are very thick on one end, gently pound the thicker side lightly with a meat mallet until the thickness is more even. This promotes even cooking.
  • This simple seasoning works well for meal prep. Store cooled, cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://delishsymphony.com/baked-chicken-breast-foolproof-oven-method/