Juicy Baked Chicken Breast

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When it comes to making a reliable, protein-packed dinner, this Juicy Baked Chicken Breast recipe is a weeknight staple you’ll return to again and again. Perfectly seasoned and oven-roasted to a golden finish, each bite is tender, flavorful, and never dry. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or serving a quick family dinner, this method delivers juicy chicken every single time.

What makes this dish shine is its simplicity. With just a few pantry staples and a hot oven, you can create a satisfying and wholesome main dish that goes with almost any side. Plus, it works beautifully for salads, sandwiches, wraps, or even cold leftovers the next day. No marinade, no fuss—just honest, delicious chicken.

Why You’ll Love This Juicy Baked Chicken Breast

You’ll love this recipe because it takes the guesswork out of getting moist, flavorful chicken from the oven. It’s quick, foolproof, and versatile. The blend of spices is subtle enough to pair well with any cuisine, and the texture is so succulent you might not believe it’s baked. It also reheats well and is ideal for low-carb, keto, or clean-eating plans.

What’s the Best Way to Bake Chicken Breasts Without Drying Them Out?

The key is high-heat roasting and a short cooking time. By baking the chicken at 425°F, you lock in moisture while achieving a lightly crisp, golden surface. Another secret? Letting the chicken rest after baking so the juices can redistribute. If you’re using large chicken breasts, slicing them in half lengthwise helps ensure even cooking.

Ingredients for the Juicy Baked Chicken Breast

This recipe uses simple, common ingredients that work together to highlight the natural flavor of the chicken. Each ingredient has a purpose, from flavor-building to moisture retention.

• Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star. Choose similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
• Olive oil: Helps the seasoning stick and keeps the surface golden and moist.
• Garlic powder: Adds a warm, aromatic base flavor.
• Paprika: Gives a touch of smokiness and color.
• Salt: Enhances flavor and tenderizes the meat.
• Black pepper: Provides subtle heat and depth.

How To Make the Juicy Baked Chicken Breast

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels.

Step 2: Season Generously

Brush each chicken breast with olive oil on both sides. Mix garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl and sprinkle evenly over the chicken.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Place the chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Bake uncovered for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Step 4: Rest Before Slicing

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This helps retain all the juices for the ultimate tender bite.

How to Serve and Store Juicy Baked Chicken Breast

This recipe feeds about 4 people, making it ideal for a small family meal or a week of healthy lunches. Serve the chicken freshly baked and sliced, or dice it into grain bowls, tacos, or pasta dishes. It’s a kitchen workhorse that adapts to your meal plan.

To store, keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator and gently reheat before serving.

What to Serve With Juicy Baked Chicken Breast?

Easy Chicken Fried Rice

A savory companion that uses up leftover chicken perfectly. Check out the recipe for Easy Chicken Fried Rice.

Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni

Creamy pasta contrasts beautifully with the lightness of baked chicken. Find the full recipe here.

Creamy Mushroom Sauce for Steak

Swap steak for your baked chicken and drizzle this umami-packed sauce over the top. Explore the sauce here.

Low Carb Chicken Casserole

If you love lean protein, pair your baked chicken with a slice of this creamy, low-carb casserole.

Apple Salad

A fresh apple salad adds crunch and sweetness to balance the savory chicken. Try this refreshing side.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Naturally sweet and hearty, these make a fantastic pairing.

Lemon Basil Pasta Salad

A chilled pasta salad with lemony herbs is a perfect summertime pairing.

Rice Bowls with Chimichurri

Add sliced chicken to a rice bowl with herbs and vegetables for a zesty, complete meal.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you love this Juicy Baked Chicken Breast, you might want to check out these savory ideas next:

• Low Carb Chicken Casserole when you’re craving comfort with fewer carbs.
• Smothered Chicken and Rice for a creamy Southern-style meal.
• Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta if you’re into fun new shapes and flavors.
• Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Chicken for a low-effort wow factor.
• BBQ Chicken Pizza when you want a family-friendly dinner with bold flavor.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use different spices? Maybe added a marinade or served it cold in a salad? I’d love to hear your twist.

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Conclusion

This Juicy Baked Chicken Breast proves that simple ingredients and a smart baking method are all you need to create a weeknight win. It’s reliable, delicious, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re feeding your family or stocking the fridge for the week, this one is a keeper.

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