Description
A simple, reliable recipe for tender and juicy oven-baked chicken breast using a gentle baking method with olive oil and lemon juice to prevent dryness.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs / 680g)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for serving)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels and trim any excess fat. If breasts are uneven, pound them gently to an even thickness of about 3/4 inch.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice. Pour over chicken in a baking dish, turning to coat both sides completely.
- In another small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle evenly over chicken, pressing spices into the meat. Season the other side as well.
- Place baking sheet in the center of the oven. Bake for 15-18 minutes without opening the door for the first 10 minutes.
- Check internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C). If needed, bake for 2-3 more minutes.
- Remove chicken from oven and transfer to a plate. Tent loosely with foil and let rest for at least 5 minutes to redistribute juices.
- Serve immediately, optionally dotting with butter and sprinkling with fresh parsley.
Notes
Do not overcook; remove at 160°F and let residual heat bring it to 165°F during resting. Ensure chicken is pounded to even thickness for uniform cooking. Can be marinated in the fridge for up to 4 hours. For air fryer, cook at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 280
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 14
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Carbohydrates: 2
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 35
Keywords: chicken breast, oven baked chicken, healthy dinner, high protein, gluten-free, easy recipe, self-care meal, juicy chicken