If you’re looking for a straightforward, flavorful, and juicy dinner that never disappoints, this Oven Baked Seasoned Chicken Breast Recipe is just what your weeknight needs. With a careful blend of spices and a simple baking method, this dish brings out the best in boneless, skinless chicken breasts. The balance of garlic, paprika, and Italian seasoning not only delivers incredible aroma but also makes each bite tender and perfectly seasoned, turning a basic protein into a memorable meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Oven Baked Seasoned Chicken Breast Recipe plays a crucial role, proving that simple does not mean boring. Each element adds something special, from flavor to moisture, ensuring your chicken is juicy, tasty, and beautifully baked.
- 2 pounds chicken breast (boneless and skinless): The star ingredient, providing lean protein with a tender texture perfect for baking.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps the seasoning stick and ensures the chicken stays moist while baking.
- 1 tablespoon light brown sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness and helps with caramelization for a golden crust.
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder: Brings a savory depth and classic aroma that pairs beautifully with chicken.
- 2 teaspoons onion powder: Enhances overall flavor complexity and complements the garlic perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon ground paprika: Infuses a mild heat and lovely red color, making the dish inviting and vibrant.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that gives a Mediterranean flair and an herby brightness.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing and balancing all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds just enough warmth and sharpness without overpowering.
- 1 tablespoon butter (diced): Adds richness and helps keep the chicken moist during baking.
How to Make Oven Baked Seasoned Chicken Breast Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan
Start by heating your oven to 400°F. While waiting, lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish to ensure your chicken won’t stick and helps with an even heat distribution. This simple step sets the stage for perfectly baked chicken with minimal cleanup.
Step 2: Flatten Chicken for Even Cooking
Place each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap. Using a rolling pin or the flat side of a mallet, gently pound the breasts to about 0.5 to 0.75 inch thickness. This not only helps the chicken cook evenly but also tenderizes it. Once flattened, rub olive oil over each piece, locking in moisture and preparing the surface for seasoning.
Step 3: Season to Perfection
In a small bowl, mix together the light brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle this flavorful blend evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts, then gently rub it in so every bite will be packed with deliciousness. This seasoning mix offers the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and herby notes.
Step 4: Bake Until Juicy and Tender
Place the seasoned chicken into the prepared casserole dish and top each breast with a small dice of butter. The butter melts as the chicken bakes, adding luscious richness and keeping the meat moist. Bake in the 400°F oven until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, approximately 18 to 20 minutes. For an irresistible finish, broil the chicken for 1 to 3 minutes to achieve a lightly crisped and golden top. This step seals in flavor and gives a lovely visual appeal.
How to Serve Oven Baked Seasoned Chicken Breast Recipe
Garnishes
A fresh sprinkle of chopped parsley or cilantro provides a vibrant pop of color and a mild herbal contrast that complements the spices perfectly. Lemon wedges on the side add a bright, zesty kick if you want to cut through the richness.
Side Dishes
This chicken shines when paired with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh crisp salad. For a wholesome meal, consider serving it alongside quinoa or brown rice that can soak up the delicious buttery juices you’ve created.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the chicken and serve it over a bed of sautéed spinach with cherry tomatoes for a light yet satisfying plate. Or stuff the baked breasts into warm pita bread with tzatziki and cucumbers for a Mediterranean-inspired delight. The versatility of this Oven Baked Seasoned Chicken Breast Recipe means you can tailor the presentation to whatever mood strikes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Simply place any leftover chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days, ready to become a quick lunch or a protein-packed addition to salads and wraps.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this dish later, wrap each chicken breast tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat chicken gently in the oven at 325°F for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through, which helps maintain moisture and texture. Alternatively, microwave it covered with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out, perfect for a quick reheating option.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken breasts for this Oven Baked Seasoned Chicken Breast Recipe?
You can, but bone-in breasts will require longer cooking time and you’ll need to monitor the internal temperature carefully to ensure they reach 165°F for safe consumption.
What if I don’t have all the spices listed?
Feel free to customize! Garlic powder and paprika are key, but the brown sugar, onion powder, and Italian seasoning add layers of flavor. Omitting or substituting herbs won’t drastically change the deliciousness.
How can I tell when the chicken is done without a thermometer?
While a meat thermometer is ideal, if you don’t have one, check that the juices run clear when you cut into the thickest part of the breast and that there’s no pink inside.
Is this recipe healthy?
Absolutely! Using lean chicken breasts and baking instead of frying keeps calories and fat lower, while the seasoning adds flavor without extra heavy sauces.
Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes! Just make sure you have a sufficiently large baking dish or use multiple dishes to maintain even cooking.
Final Thoughts
This Oven Baked Seasoned Chicken Breast Recipe is a true gem for anyone who loves easy, tasty, and nutritious meals. It’s one of those dishes that quickly becomes a go-to because it’s flexible, straightforward, and absolutely delicious. Give it a try and watch how it transforms your dinner routine with its juicy tenderness and perfect seasoning every single time.
Print
Oven Baked Seasoned Chicken Breast Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Oven Baked Chicken Breast recipe offers a simple and flavorful way to prepare moist and tender chicken breasts with a blend of aromatic spices, light brown sugar, and butter. The chicken is first flattened for even cooking, seasoned thoroughly, and then baked to perfection before receiving a quick broil finish for a slightly crispy top. Perfect for a healthy and delicious meal option.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 pounds chicken breast (boneless and skinless)
Seasoning and Add-ins
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon ground paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon butter (diced)
Instructions
- Prep: Heat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish to prevent the chicken from sticking during baking.
- Flatten: Place each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap. Use a rolling pin or the flat side of a mallet to pound the chicken until it is about 0.5 to 0.75 inches thick for even cooking. Rub olive oil all over the flattened chicken breasts to help the seasoning stick.
- Season: In a small bowl, combine the light brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts, then rub it in lightly to coat thoroughly.
- Bake: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared casserole dish. Top each piece with a slice of diced butter to add richness and moisture. Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring the chicken is safely cooked and juicy.
- Broil: After baking, switch the oven to broil. Broil the chicken for 1 to 3 minutes to achieve a lightly browned and slightly crispy top, watching carefully to avoid burning.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness to avoid overcooking.
- You can substitute unsalted butter to better control sodium content.
- If chicken breasts are uneven in thickness, carefully pound thicker areas to promote even cooking.
- Serve with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
- Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
