This oven-baked chicken breast recipe is a simple and healthy way to prepare chicken. With minimal ingredients and straightforward techniques, you can achieve juicy and flavorful chicken breasts that are perfect for any meal.
The recipe is versatile, allowing you to season the chicken to your liking. Serve it with vegetables, salads, or grains for a complete dish.
Preparing the Chicken Breast
To achieve a perfectly baked chicken breast, start by ensuring the chicken is dry. Patting it down with paper towels helps create a nice sear when cooking.
Next, season the chicken with a blend of olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. This combination not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to the golden-brown color of the chicken.
Baking to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) before placing the seasoned chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This step is vital for even cooking.
Bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This guarantees that the chicken is safe to eat while remaining juicy and tender.
Resting and Garnishing
Once out of the oven, allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, enhancing its flavor and moisture.
For a fresh touch, garnish the chicken with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. This not only adds color but also elevates the overall presentation of the dish.
Pairing with Roasted Vegetables
Complement the chicken with a colorful array of roasted vegetables. Choose a mix of your favorites, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots, to create a vibrant plate.
Roasting vegetables alongside the chicken can be a time-saver. Simply toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper, and add them to the oven during the last 15-20 minutes of the chicken’s cooking time.
The Home-Cooked Experience
Serving this dish on a simple white plate enhances its visual appeal, allowing the golden chicken and vibrant vegetables to take center stage.
The rustic wooden table background adds a warm, inviting feel, making it perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Nutritional Benefits
This oven-baked chicken breast is not only delicious but also nutritious. With approximately 220 calories per serving, it provides a healthy option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.
Rich in protein and low in carbohydrates, this dish is ideal for anyone seeking a satisfying meal without excess calories. Enjoy it as part of a wholesome dinner that nourishes both body and soul.
Easy Baked Chicken Breast Recipe
This recipe features chicken breasts seasoned and baked until tender and juicy. It takes about 30 minutes from start to finish and serves 2 people.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a nice sear.
- Season the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 2 servings
- Calories: 220kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 0g