Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast Recipe
Baked chicken breast is a simple and delicious dinner staple that delivers juicy, flavorful results with minimal effort. It’s a go-to for busy weeknights and reliable meal prep.
With just a few ingredients and a hot oven, baked chicken breast becomes tender, golden, and ready to complement any side dish from roasted veggies to creamy pasta.
Key Ingredients for Juicy Baked Chicken Breast
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts – The heart of this dish, these lean cuts are high in protein and take on flavor beautifully when baked properly.
- Olive oil – Adds moisture and helps the seasoning cling, ensuring a golden crust and tender bite.
- Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that brings subtle, savory depth to every bite.
- Seasoned salt – Boosts the natural flavor of the chicken with a hint of savory complexity.
- Paprika – Adds color and a gentle smokiness that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Black pepper – Offers a mild heat and peppery finish to balance the herbaceous notes.
How to Make Baked Chicken Breast Like a Pro
Preheat your oven to 400°F and prep a baking dish with a light coat of oil or parchment paper.
Toss the chicken breasts in olive oil and seasonings until each piece is evenly coated.
Lay the breasts flat in the baking pan and bake uncovered for 21–26 minutes, depending on size. Use a thermometer to check for 165°F at the thickest point.
Let the chicken rest for five minutes before slicing to lock in juices. Spoon over any pan juices for extra flavor.
Tips & Simple Variations for Next-Level Flavor
For even cooking, pound thicker ends of the chicken breasts so they’re uniform in size. This helps avoid dry, overcooked edges.
Want a touch of brightness? Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the sliced chicken just before serving. Craving heat? Add a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper to the seasoning mix.
You can easily swap Italian seasoning for Cajun, taco, or Greek spice blends depending on your dinner plans. This recipe adapts beautifully for salads, grain bowls, sandwiches, or pasta dishes.
Keep It Fresh: Storing and Reheating Baked Chicken
Store leftover baked chicken breast in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently in the microwave with a splash of water or in a skillet over low heat to maintain juiciness.
To freeze, slice or cube the cooled chicken and store in freezer-safe bags for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed. Perfect for adding to soups, salads, or casseroles when you’re short on time but still want a satisfying meal.
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (approximately 6 oz each)
- ½ teaspoon seasoned salt or regular salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. Prepare a baking dish measuring 9 x 13 inches by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper.
- Place the chicken breasts in a medium mixing bowl. Add olive oil, Italian seasoning, seasoned salt, paprika, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly to ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the seasoning blend.
- Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish in a single layer. Bake them uncovered for 21 to 26 minutes, or until the thickest part of each piece registers 165°F using an instant-read thermometer.
- Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and transfer it to a cutting board or plate. Allow it to rest for 5 minutes to retain juiciness.
- Slice the chicken breasts and drizzle them with the cooking juices for added flavor.
Notes
Using a meat mallet to even out the thickness ensures more consistent cooking.
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To reheat, use an oven, stovetop pan, or microwave. The chicken can also be repurposed into salads, casseroles, or soups.
