Learn the simple technique to bake chicken breasts in the oven so they stay incredibly juicy and tender every time. This easy recipe uses a basic savory seasoning blend perfect for quick weeknight dinners or meal prepping.
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
Prepare the chicken: If your chicken breasts are uneven, place them between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound the thicker end until the entire breast is an even thickness. This helps the chicken cook evenly.
In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and thyme to create your simple seasoning blend.
Rub the olive oil over all surfaces of the chicken breasts. Sprinkle the seasoning blend evenly over both sides of the chicken, pressing gently so the spices adhere.
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
Bake for 18 to 22 minutes. The exact time depends on the thickness of the chicken.
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken is done when it reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit in the thickest part.
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest on a cutting board for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period is key to keeping the chicken moist.
Notes
For extra moisture, you can place a few pats of butter on top of each breast before baking.
This recipe is great for meal prep; store cooled, sliced chicken in airtight containers for up to four days.
If you prefer a garlic butter flavor, substitute the olive oil with melted butter and add 1 teaspoon of dried parsley to the seasoning mix.