Easy Baked Chicken Breasts
Simple to make and full of flavor, these baked chicken breasts are perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or meal prep. Pound them for even cooking and coat them in a delicious spice blend before baking to juicy perfection.
Equipment
- 9x13 inch Baking Dish
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6 ounce)
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
- 3/4 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper or to taste
- 1 Tablespoon minced fresh parsley optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to a warm 425°F (220°C). Lightly coat a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray, ensuring nothing sticks.
- Gently pound the thicker parts of the chicken breasts until they are about 3/4-inch thick. This simple step helps them cook evenly and ensures they stay wonderfully tender.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the garlic powder, dried thyme, onion powder, dried oregano, paprika, chili powder, 3/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. This creates your flavorful seasoning blend.
- Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Brush both sides of each chicken breast with olive oil.
- Generously sprinkle your delicious spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken, making sure every piece is well coated for maximum flavor.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 16 to 20 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken registers 165°F (74°C). Don't overcook to keep it juicy!
- Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. This quick rest allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful! Optionally, sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving for a touch of freshness.
Notes
Don't overcook the chicken to keep it juicy! Letting it rest for 5 minutes after baking allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful. Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley.
Nutrition Information per Serving:
Calories: 245
Total Carbs: 0g
Net Carbs: 0g
Fats: 11g
Protein: 35g
Calories: 245
Total Carbs: 0g
Net Carbs: 0g
Fats: 11g
Protein: 35g
