Easy Baked Chicken Breast Recipe

Make this quick and flavorful baked chicken breast recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or pairing with your favorite side dishes. With a blend of paprika, garlic, and Italian seasoning, this recipe ensures moist, tender chicken every time.

Ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil (adjust as needed)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper, or to taste

Instructions:

Prepare Chicken:
Remove the chicken breasts from the refrigerator to allow them to come closer to room temperature. Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and position the oven rack in the top third of the oven.
Make the Spice Rub:
In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Season the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish or on a foil-lined baking sheet. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken, ensuring all sides are coated. Evenly sprinkle the spice rub over the chicken and use your hands to gently rub it in, ensuring every surface is seasoned.
Bake the Chicken:
Bake the chicken breasts, uncovered, for 18–20 minutes for medium-sized breasts. For smaller pieces, check around 15 minutes, and for larger ones, additional time may be needed. To ensure the chicken is cooked through, use an instant-read thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 160°F.
Rest and Serve:
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. During this time, the internal temperature will rise to the safe level of 165°F. Slice or serve whole, drizzling any pan juices over the chicken for added flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe requires minimal prep and cook time.
Juicy and Flavorful: The spice rub ensures the chicken is well-seasoned and stays moist.
Healthy Option: Lean protein, low in fat, and packed with flavor.
Versatile: Works as a main course or can be sliced for salads, wraps, or meal prep.

Tips

Use a Meat Thermometer: This ensures perfectly cooked chicken without drying it out.
Let It Rest: Resting the chicken allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender bites.
Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the rub by adding cayenne for heat or adjusting the seasoning blend to your preference.

Variations and Substitutions

Different Seasonings: Swap the Italian seasoning for Cajun spices or a simple lemon pepper blend.
Marinate Ahead: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice for a few hours before baking.
Bone-In Chicken: Adjust the cooking time if using bone-in chicken breasts or thighs.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: It’s best to thaw the chicken first for even cooking and optimal texture.

Q: What if I don’t have all the spices?
A: You can use a premade seasoning blend like taco seasoning, poultry seasoning, or your favorite spice mix.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store cooled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain moisture.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Slice and serve over pasta, rice, or quinoa for a hearty bowl.
Use leftovers in sandwiches, wraps, or meal prep boxes.

This Easy Baked Chicken Breast recipe is a reliable and versatile option for any occasion!