Are you tired of dry, flavorless chicken that disappoints at every meal? Get ready to transform your dinner game with this incredibly simple yet mouthwatering Easy Oven Baked Chicken recipe that will have your family begging for seconds! In just under an hour, you'll create a restaurant-quality dish that's so delicious and foolproof, even beginner cooks can master it with absolute confidence.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and gets a nice golden color.
- While the oven is preheating, prepare the chicken breasts. Rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This will help the seasoning stick better.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and coat them evenly with the olive oil and spice mixture. Make sure each piece is well covered to enhance the flavor.
- Grease a baking dish with a little olive oil or cooking spray to prevent the chicken from sticking. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the dish, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Once the oven is preheated, place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 45 minutes. The chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear.
- After baking, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken more tender and juicy.
- Serve the chicken breasts warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your easy oven-baked chicken with your favorite side dishes!
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This prevents overcooking and keeps the meat juicy.
- Pat Dry for Crispy Skin: Always pat your chicken breasts completely dry before seasoning. This helps the spices adhere better and promotes a more appetizing golden-brown exterior.
- Don't Overcrowd the Baking Dish: Give each chicken breast enough space to cook evenly. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of baking, which reduces the crispy texture.
- Let It Rest: After baking, allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes. This crucial step helps redistribute the juices, ensuring each bite is tender and moist.
- Customize Your Seasoning: Feel free to experiment with different spice blends like Italian herbs, Cajun seasoning, or lemon-herb mix to keep the recipe exciting and fresh.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 38g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 110mg
