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never-dry oven-baked chicken breast - featured image

Never-Dry Oven-Baked Chicken Breast: Self-Care Dinner


  • Author: Olivia
  • Total Time: 28 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings 1x

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

  1. 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.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice. Pour over chicken in a baking dish, turning to coat both sides completely.
  3. 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.
  4. Place baking sheet in the center of the oven. Bake for 15-18 minutes without opening the door for the first 10 minutes.
  5. Check internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C). If needed, bake for 2-3 more minutes.
  6. Remove chicken from oven and transfer to a plate. Tent loosely with foil and let rest for at least 5 minutes to redistribute juices.
  7. 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