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Easy Oven Roasted Chicken Breast – Juicy, Flavorful & Perfect Every Time!

Chicken breasts often get a bad rap for being dry or bland—but not this time! This Easy Oven Roasted Chicken Breast recipe proves that with a few simple ingredients and the right technique, you can turn humble chicken into a juicy, golden, flavorful main dish that’s ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for meal prep, weeknight dinners, or even slicing over salads and pastas, this chicken breast comes out tender and juicy inside, with just the right amount of seasoning on the outside. No marinade, no fuss—just flavor and reliability, every time.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

🍗 Meat
  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5–2 pounds total)
🧄 Seasonings
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
🧈 Fat
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter for a richer flavor

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or foil
  • Meat thermometer (optional but recommended)
  • Small bowl for seasoning mix
  • Basting brush (optional)
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Oven preheated to 425°F (220°C)

Method
 

Step 1. Preheat the Oven
  1. Set oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
Step 2. Prep the Chicken
  1. Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels—this helps the oil and seasonings stick better.
  2. Place the breasts on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 3. Mix the Seasoning
  1. In a small bowl, combine:
  2. 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  3. 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  4. 1/2 tsp black pepper
  5. 1 tsp kosher salt
  6. Stir to blend evenly.
Step 4. Season the Chicken
  1. Rub or brush each chicken breast with olive oil or melted butter on both sides.
  2. Sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over the chicken.
  3. Lightly press the seasoning into the meat for better flavor.
Step 5. Roast the Chicken
  1. Bake uncovered at 425°F for 18–22 minutes, depending on the thickness.
  2. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Step 6. Rest Before Serving
  1. Remove from the oven and tent with foil.
  2. Let rest for 5–10 minutes—this locks in the juices.
Step 7. Slice & Serve
  1. Slice against the grain and serve with your favorite sides, salad, or grain bowl.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Slice or store whole. Wrap well and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating
Oven: Wrap in foil and bake at 350°F for 10–12 minutes.
Microwave: Cover loosely and reheat on medium power for 1–2 minutes.
Skillet: Warm with a splash of broth or oil over low heat for 5–7 minutes.
🥄 Variations
Lemon Herb: Add lemon zest and Italian seasoning to the spice mix.
Spicy Cajun: Use Cajun seasoning or add cayenne to the blend.
Garlic Butter Chicken: Use melted butter + fresh garlic for extra richness.
BBQ Twist: Rub with your favorite dry BBQ seasoning before roasting.
Cheesy Finish: Top with grated parmesan in the last 5 minutes of roasting.
❓ 10 FAQs
1. How do I keep chicken breast from drying out?
High heat and a short cooking time help. Always rest it after baking.
2. What’s the best temperature for baking chicken breast?
425°F is ideal—it gives a juicy center and golden edge.
3. Should I pound the chicken before baking?
If the breasts are very thick or uneven, pounding helps them cook evenly.
4. Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Yes! Roast at 400°F for 25–30 minutes for bone-in, less for boneless.
5. What’s the best way to season roasted chicken?
A simple mix of salt, garlic powder, paprika, and pepper does wonders!
6. Can I marinate it overnight?
Sure! Use oil, lemon juice, herbs, and garlic—but not required for this version.
7. How do I know when it’s done?
Use a meat thermometer—165°F (74°C) at the thickest point is safe.
8. What sides go well with oven-roasted chicken?
Roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, rice, or a crisp green salad.
9. Can I cook this on a sheet pan with veggies?
Absolutely—just cut veggies like carrots, potatoes, or broccoli into small chunks so they cook evenly.
10. Can I meal prep with this recipe?
Yes—it’s perfect! Slice and portion into containers for the week.
🏁 Conclusion
This Easy Oven Roasted Chicken Breast is everything you want in a go-to dinner: quick, flavorful, juicy, and incredibly versatile. It’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again—ideal for busy weeknights, family meals, and batch cooking.
With a short ingredient list and customizable seasoning, it’s proof that simple can be sensational.
Whether you serve it sliced over salad, layered in wraps, or paired with roasted veggies, this chicken recipe always delivers.