There’s nothing quite as satisfying as a perfectly baked chicken breast — golden on the outside, juicy and tender on the inside, and ready to pair with just about anything. The problem? So many baked chicken recipes turn out dry and boring. Not this one.
This Juicy Baked Chicken Breast Recipe uses a simple seasoning blend and a foolproof baking method to lock in moisture and flavor.
It’s a quick and healthy dinner option, perfect for busy weeknights, salads, sandwiches, or weekly meal prep. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or trying to simplify dinner, this is the kind of go-to recipe you’ll be so glad to have.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This chicken is perfectly seasoned, incredibly moist, and oven-ready in minutes. No marinades, brines, or complicated steps required — just a few pantry staples, high heat, and a quick rest after baking for ultra-juicy results.
Even better? It’s versatile enough to serve with pasta, rice, roasted veggies, or tossed into a salad. It keeps beautifully and tastes just as good cold the next day (hello, chicken wraps and grain bowls!).
What You’ll Need
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (or sweet paprika)
- Optional: lemon wedges and chopped parsley for garnish
Pro Tips
- Pound your chicken to even thickness so it cooks evenly and stays juicy throughout.
- Let the chicken rest after baking so juices redistribute and stay inside the meat.
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking — 165°F is your target.
- High heat = juicy chicken — baking at 425°F helps seal in moisture quickly.
- Change up the seasonings to match your mood: Italian herbs, taco spices, or lemon pepper all work great!
Tools You’ll Need
- Baking sheet or baking dish
- Parchment paper or foil
- Meat thermometer (for best results)
- Small bowl for mixing spices
- Silicone brush (optional for oil)
- Rolling pin or mallet (to pound chicken)
Substitutions & Variations
- No paprika? Try Italian seasoning, Cajun blend, or just keep it simple with garlic and salt.
- Add heat: Sprinkle in chili powder or crushed red pepper flakes.
- Make it cheesy: Add a slice of mozzarella or cheddar on top during the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Fresh herbs: Swap in fresh rosemary, thyme, or dill for a lighter flavor.
Make Ahead Tips
You can season and refrigerate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
It’s ideal for meal prep and tastes great cold or reheated in the oven, air fryer, or microwave.
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet or dish with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Chicken
Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness (about ¾ inch). Pat dry with paper towels.
3. Season
Rub chicken with olive oil on both sides. In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Sprinkle seasoning evenly over both sides of chicken.
4. Bake
Place chicken on prepared baking sheet. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F at the thickest part.
5. Rest & Slice
Remove from oven and let rest for 5–10 minutes. Slice against the grain and serve with your favorite sides.
Leftovers & Storage
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container. Reheat in the microwave with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out, or enjoy cold in salads and wraps.
You can also freeze sliced or whole baked chicken for up to 2 months.
Recipe FAQs
1. How do I know when the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer — it should read 165°F in the thickest part. The juices should run clear when pierced.
2. Why is my chicken dry?
It was likely overcooked or not rested after baking. Be sure to check early and let it rest 5–10 minutes before slicing.
3. Can I bake frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, but they’ll take longer (about 30–40 minutes). For best results, thaw first to ensure even seasoning and cooking.
4. Can I use bone-in chicken?
Absolutely! Increase baking time to 30–35 minutes and be sure the internal temp hits 165°F.
The Final Slice
This Juicy Baked Chicken Breast recipe is a simple, reliable go-to that never fails to impress.
Whether you’re feeding a family, prepping your lunches, or making a fast dinner, it delivers flavorful, tender chicken every single time.
Give it a try and let me know how you served it — or what seasonings made it your own!