Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Breasts
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Flatten the Chicken Breasts: To ensure even cooking, place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch thick.
Step 2: Season the Chicken Breasts
- Make the Spice Mix: In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat the Chicken Breasts: Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle both sides of the chicken with olive oil and rub it in to coat evenly. Sprinkle the spice mix over both sides of the chicken breasts, pressing it into the meat with your hands.
Step 3: Bake the Chicken Breasts
- Bake: Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer on the baking sheet. If desired, place lemon slices on top of the chicken for added flavor. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). To check the temperature, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken breast.
- Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices, making the chicken even more tender.
Step 4: Serve
- Slice and Garnish: Slice the chicken breasts against the grain. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
- Enjoy: Serve the oven-baked chicken breasts with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Tips for Perfect Oven-Baked Chicken Breasts
- Even Thickness: Ensuring the chicken breasts are of even thickness helps them cook uniformly, preventing some parts from drying out while others are still undercooked.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on the cooking time and use a meat thermometer to avoid overbaking, which can make the chicken dry.
- Resting Time: Allowing the chicken to rest after baking helps the juices redistribute, making the meat more flavorful and moist.
Variations
- Lemon-Herb Chicken: Add lemon zest to the spice mix and fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs under the chicken breasts for a fragrant twist.
- Spicy Chicken: Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the spice mix for a kick of heat.
- Honey Mustard Chicken: Brush the chicken breasts with a mixture of honey and Dijon mustard before baking for a sweet and tangy glaze.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Dishes: Pair the chicken with steamed vegetables, quinoa, or a mixed green salad.
- Sauces: Serve with a side of honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or a creamy garlic sauce for dipping.
- Leftovers: Use leftover chicken in sandwiches, salads, or wraps for a quick and easy meal.
Final Thoughts
Oven-Baked Chicken Breasts are a versatile and reliable recipe that should be in every home cook’s repertoire. With the right seasoning and baking technique, you can achieve juicy, flavorful chicken breasts that are perfect for any meal. Enjoy this simple yet delicious dish with your favorite sides and sauces for a wholesome and satisfying meal.