Name: Chicken Breast Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; Lemon wedges

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If you’re searching for the ultimate weeknight dinner that’s equal parts juicy, flavorful, and ridiculously easy, this classic Chicken Breast recipe is about to become your new go-to. Perfectly seasoned with a blend of spices and baked until tender, these chicken breasts are wonderfully versatile and pair with just about anything. Whether you’re a kitchen newbie or a seasoned chef looking for a healthy staple, this is the Chicken Breast recipe you’ll turn to again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Chicken Breast recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to elevate the flavor, texture, and color of the final dish while keeping things wonderfully straightforward. Here’s what you’ll need, and why each one matters:

Chicken breasts: The star of the show, boneless and skinless for maximum tenderness and easy prep.
Olive oil: Adds moisture, helps the seasonings stick, and gives the chicken a lovely golden finish.
Salt: Essential for bringing out all the natural flavors and seasoning the meat throughout.
Black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and balances the other spices perfectly.
Garlic powder: Infuses the chicken with savory aroma and depth of flavor.
Paprika: Not only adds beautiful color, but also gives a gentle warmth and smokiness.
Dried thyme: A touch of earthiness that complements the chicken and enhances the overall aroma.
Lemon wedges: Finish the dish with a fresh, zesty burst to brighten up every bite.

How to Make Chicken Breast

Step 1: Prep the Chicken Breasts

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F, so it’s ready when you are. Pat each chicken breast dry with paper towels; this little move helps the olive oil and seasonings cling to the surface, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. If you want extra juicy results, go ahead and pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This helps them cook evenly and stay tender.

Step 2: Season Generously

Rub each chicken breast with olive oil to lock in moisture and create a beautiful, golden crust as they bake. Then, sprinkle both sides evenly with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and dried thyme. Don’t be shy—an even coat of seasoning is the key to mouthwatering flavor in every forkful.

Step 3: Arrange and Bake

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup, or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts on the sheet, making sure they’re spaced apart for proper heat circulation. Slide them into your preheated oven and bake for 22 to 25 minutes, or until the internal temperature hits 165°F. The aroma filling your kitchen at this stage is a sign you’re on the right track!

Step 4: Rest and Serve

Once your Chicken Breast is perfectly baked, remove it from the oven and loosely cover the pan with foil. Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes—this helps the juices redistribute, keeping every bite succulent and satisfying. Slice and serve warm, accompanied by fresh lemon wedges for a vibrant finishing touch.

How to Serve Chicken Breast

Garnishes

Brighten up your Chicken Breast with a scatter of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives, an extra squeeze of lemon, or even a dusting of smoked paprika. These little touches add visual appeal and a pop of freshness that makes each plate feel special.

Side Dishes

This Chicken Breast pairs beautifully with just about anything—think roasted vegetables, fluffy mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad. For a lighter meal, serve over cauliflower rice or alongside steamed broccoli. The subtle, savory flavors of the chicken complement a wide variety of sides, so feel free to get creative!

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t stop at the classic plate! Try slicing the Chicken Breast and arranging it over a hearty grain bowl, tucking it into a sandwich with your favorite fixings, or chopping it up for a protein-packed salad. You can even serve it family-style on a platter with colorful roasted veggies for an impressive dinner spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chicken Breast is a meal-prep dream. Allow the chicken to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. It stays moist and flavorful, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners all week long.

Freezing

If you want to save your Chicken Breast for later, freezing is a great option. Simply wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to three months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before using.

Reheating

To keep your Chicken Breast juicy when reheating, use a gentle method. Warm it in a covered skillet over low heat, or microwave briefly with a splash of water and a loose cover. For extra flavor, add a squeeze of lemon or a drizzle of olive oil before serving.

FAQs

How do I make sure my Chicken Breast comes out juicy, not dry?

The secret is not to overcook! Use a meat thermometer and pull the chicken from the oven as soon as it reaches 165°F. Letting it rest before slicing also helps keep the juices locked in.

Can I use this recipe for chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! While this recipe is designed for Chicken Breast, chicken thighs work just as well—just adjust the cooking time as they may need a few extra minutes in the oven.

What if I don’t have paprika or thyme?

No worries! Feel free to swap in your favorite spices like Italian seasoning, oregano, or even a pinch of cayenne for heat. The basic technique will still deliver a delicious Chicken Breast.

Is there a way to make this Chicken Breast recipe on the stovetop?

Yes! Simply cook the chicken in a skillet over medium heat with a bit of oil, about 6–7 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. It’s a great option if you don’t want to heat up the oven.

How can I tell if my Chicken Breast is done without a thermometer?

The juices should run clear when you cut into the thickest part, and the meat should be firm but not dry. However, for best results and safety, a meat thermometer is highly recommended!

Final Thoughts

Once you try this easy, flavorful Chicken Breast recipe, you’ll see why it’s a household staple. It’s simple, endlessly adaptable, and always delivers on both taste and texture. Gather your ingredients and treat yourself to a delicious home-cooked meal—your future self (and your taste buds) will thank you!

Chicken Breast Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 14 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This easy oven-baked chicken breast recipe is perfect for a healthy and delicious dinner. Tender, juicy chicken breasts are seasoned with a flavorful blend of garlic, paprika, and thyme, then baked to perfection. It’s a simple, gluten-free, high-protein meal ideal for meal prep, salads, or sandwiches.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts

Seasoning

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

For Serving

Lemon wedges

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Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking the chicken evenly.
Prepare Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Rub each breast evenly with olive oil to help the seasoning stick and to keep the chicken moist during baking.
Season Chicken: Season both sides of each chicken breast with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and dried thyme, making sure the spices are distributed evenly for full flavor.
Arrange for Baking: Place the seasoned chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased to prevent sticking.
Bake Chicken: Bake in the preheated oven for 22–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure safe consumption and juicy results.
Rest Chicken: Remove the chicken from the oven and loosely cover it with foil. Let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, enhancing tenderness.
Serve: Slice the chicken breasts and serve warm with lemon wedges for an added brightness and zest.

Notes

For juicier chicken, pound the breasts to an even thickness before baking to promote even cooking.
You can alternatively cook these chicken breasts on the stovetop in a skillet over medium heat for 6–7 minutes per side for a golden crust.
Leftovers are versatile and can be added to salads, sandwiches, or used for meal prep throughout the week.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American