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.

Baked Chicken Breasts – Juicy, Easy & Perfect Every Time

Name: Baked Chicken Breasts – Juicy, Easy & Perfect Every Time
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
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

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

Scale

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

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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.

Equipment

9×13 Ceramic Baking Dish

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Thermometer

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Mixing Bowls

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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