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Growing up, Sundays meant one thing: baked chicken breasts sizzling in Mom’s favorite dish, filling the house with garlic, herbs, and comfort. These baked chicken breasts bring all that cozy, golden goodness—with a juicy, tender twist that never dries out. Whether it’s a Sunday tradition or a Tuesday dinner rush, this baked chicken breasts recipe is always foolproof and delicious.
In This Guide
Why You’ll Love This Baked Chicken Recipe
This baked chicken breasts recipe is your kitchen’s new go-to for easy, juicy flavor. These baked chicken breasts come out golden and tender every single time, using just pantry staples and a no-fuss spice blend. Whether you’re meal prepping, planning weeknight dinners, or adding protein to a salad, this method for baked chicken breasts keeps it simple, satisfying, and full of warmth—no culinary degree required.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Core Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp dried thyme (or oregano, parsley, or your go-to dried herb)
- ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
Ingredient Tips
Try to use chicken breasts that are close in size so they bake evenly. If one’s much thicker than the rest, give it a few gentle pounds with a meat mallet. Even thickness = even cooking = juicy results. Bringing the chicken to room temperature before baking also helps lock in moisture.
How to Bake Chicken Breasts in the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C)—that high heat helps seal in the juices. While it’s heating, pat the chicken dry with paper towels and place it in a bowl or directly in your baking dish.
Next, drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle on the spice mix. Rub everything in—yes, get your hands messy—making sure every surface is well coated.
Place the chicken in a baking dish, not too crowded, and bake according to the size:
- Small (5 oz): 18–20 minutes
- Medium (7 oz): 20–22 minutes
- Large (9 oz): 22–25 minutes
Flip the chicken halfway through for even cooking. Use a meat thermometer—pull it at 160°F, and let it rest to reach a juicy 165°F.
How Long to Bake Chicken Breasts
At 425°F, most boneless chicken breasts take 20 to 25 minutes, but the real key is internal temperature. Here’s a quick guide:
| Chicken Size | Bake Time (at 425°F) |
|---|---|
| Small (5 oz) | 18–20 minutes |
| Medium (7 oz) | 20–22 minutes |
| Large (9 oz) | 22–25 minutes |
Always use a meat thermometer and remove the chicken at 160°F—carryover heat will take it the rest of the way.
Best Internal Temperature for Juicy Chicken
To keep your chicken moist and tender, remove it from the oven when it hits 160°F (71°C). Let it rest for 5–10 minutes—the internal temp will rise to the safe and juicy 165°F (75°C). This carryover cooking helps keep every bite flavorful, not dry.
Tips for Juicy, Flavorful Chicken Every Time
- Let it rest before slicing so juices don’t spill out.
- Pound breasts to even thickness for consistent cooking.
- Use a thermometer—don’t rely on guesswork.
- Don’t overcook—pull it from the oven right at 160°F.
- Bring to room temp before baking for even heat distribution.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? Lucky you.
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
- Freeze sliced or shredded for up to 3 months.
- Reheat gently in the microwave with a splash of water or broth, covered, to keep it from drying out.
More Chicken Recipes You’ll Love
If you loved this recipe, try these next:
- These juicy and flavorful boneless chicken breast recipes are made for busy nights and leftover-friendly lunches.
- Our easy lemon chicken gnocchi is creamy, bright, and pure comfort.
- And don’t miss the cheesy honey mustard chicken—a reader favorite for good reason.
FAQs About Baked Chicken Breasts
Is it better to bake chicken at 350 or 400 in the oven?
400°F is great, but 425°F works even better for boneless breasts—it cooks them faster and helps keep them juicy. Lower temps take longer and can dry out the meat.
How long should I bake chicken breasts in the oven?
Anywhere from 18–25 minutes depending on size. Use a meat thermometer and pull at 160°F.
How do you bake chicken breast so they don’t dry out?
Use oil, don’t skip the rest period, and bake at high heat. Pounding to an even thickness and using a thermometer makes all the difference.
Is it better to bake chicken breast covered or uncovered?
Uncovered gives you a golden, slightly crisp surface. If you’re worried about moisture, tent with foil for the last few minutes—but usually, it’s not needed with this method.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, but thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning and baking to ensure even cooking and better flavor absorption.
What sides go well with baked chicken?
Try roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or a crisp, tangy salad for a balanced plate.
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Baked Chicken Breasts – Juicy, Easy & Perfect Every Time
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Juicy, flavorful, and simple—these baked chicken breasts are perfect for weeknight dinners or weekly meal prep. With just a handful of pantry staples and 25 minutes, you’ll get tender, golden chicken every time.
Ingredients
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)
1 tsp kosher salt
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp dried thyme (or oregano, parsley)
¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Bring chicken to room temperature and pat dry.
3. Pound breasts to even thickness.
4. Coat chicken in olive oil.
5. Mix spices and rub generously over both sides of the chicken.
6. Place in a baking dish.
7. Bake 18–25 minutes depending on breast size.
8. Flip halfway through.
9. Check for internal temp of 160°F.
10. Remove and rest until temp reaches 165°F.
11. Slice and serve.
Notes
Let the chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
Freeze sliced or shredded up to 3 months.
For microwave reheating, add 1 tsp water and cover to avoid drying out.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 163
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 713mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 72mg