Oven Baked Chicken Breast

Welcome to SousVideRecipe! I’m Jasmine, a home cook who fell in love with sous vide the moment I realized it could turn everyday meals into restaurant-quality dishes with perfect consistency. My goal is to make sous vide cooking approachable and fun for real home kitchens — no complicated steps, just flavorful, reliable recipes anyone can master. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, I’m here to inspire you to enjoy cooking and create unforgettable meals one perfectly cooked bite at a time.

There’s something special about the simplicity of oven baked chicken breast. I vividly remember the first time I crafted a delicious, herb-seasoned chicken right in my kitchen. The aroma filled the space, making the anticipation of the meal even more exciting. It was that moment when I understood how versatile and rewarding this dish could be.

Oven baked chicken breast is not just tasty; it serves as a blank canvas for flavors. The spices come together beautifully, creating a delightful crust that locks in moisture. Every bite bursts with a medley of flavors, accompanied by a hint of freshly chopped parsley to brighten the dish. I love how a few simple ingredients can transform a mundane weeknight dinner into something delightful.

Whether preparing for a family gathering or just a quick weeknight meal, oven baked chicken breast never disappoints. It accommodates various sides and salads effortlessly, making it a go-to in my culinary repertoire. Let’s dive deeper into the art of making the perfect oven baked chicken breast.

Oven Baked Chicken Breast

Fundamentals

Cooking chicken breasts in the oven is a straightforward process. With the right technique, anyone can achieve perfectly cooked chicken that is juicy and flavorful. Understanding the core fundamentals of baking chicken can elevate the dining experience.

First, knowing the right baking temperature matters. Preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) ensures even cooking, preventing dryness or undercooking. Chicken breast can be forgiving; however, checking for doneness using a meat thermometer helps guarantee perfect results every time. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and you’ll avoid any guesswork.

Preparation/setup

Preparing for oven baked chicken breast requires minimal effort. While waiting for the oven to preheat, gather your ingredients. A clean workspace helps streamline the process and keeps everything organized.

Line your baking sheet with parchment paper. This step prevents sticking and simplifies the cleanup process. Next, focus on seasoning your chicken breasts to enhance flavor. A blend of spices highlights the meat’s natural taste without overwhelming it.

Ingredients

To create a delicious oven baked chicken breast, you will need the following:

• 4-6 ounces chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon oregano
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon cracked black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Freshly chopped parsley for serving

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the paprika, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and cracked black pepper.
3. Coat the chicken breasts with olive oil. This step not only adds flavor but also helps the spice mixture stick.
4. Apply the spice mixture evenly over the chicken breasts, ensuring good coverage.
5. Place the seasoned chicken on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Allow the chicken to rest for a few moments before garnishing with freshly chopped parsley.

Seasoned Oven Baked Chicken Breast

Technique

Using the right technique is crucial for achieving tender and juicy chicken. Start by seasoning the chicken breasts properly. The blend of spices and herbs provides a balanced flavor, while the olive oil ensures moisture retention during baking.

After applying the seasoning, allow the chicken to sit for a few minutes at room temperature. This aids in even cooking throughout the breasts. While baking, avoid opening the oven door frequently, as this can lower the temperature and affect cooking time.

Tips/tricks

• For a crispier texture, broil the chicken in the last few minutes of cooking time. This helps create a beautiful golden crust while keeping the inside moist.
• If you marinate the chicken beforehand, allow it to rest before baking. This enhances flavor absorption.
• Experiment with your spice mix! Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can bring a delightful kick to the dish.

Elevating Your Oven Baked Chicken Breast

Perfecting results

To perfect your oven baked chicken breast, consider the cut of meat you use. Opting for uniform-sized chicken breasts guarantees even cooking. If the breasts are too thick, consider flattening them slightly for consistent baking.

After baking, let the chicken rest for at least five minutes. This time allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful.

Troubleshooting/variations

If your chicken breast turns out dry, it may have been overcooked. Always monitor the internal temperature to achieve the desired doneness. Additionally, ensuring that the chicken breasts are coated adequately with olive oil helps retain moisture and avoid dryness.

For variations, consider incorporating different herbs or spices according to your preference. Thyme or rosemary can introduce new dimensions to the flavor profile, allowing you to customize this dish.

Serving Your Oven Baked Chicken Breast

Serving/presentation

Presentation plays a vital role in enhancing your culinary creation. Slice the rested chicken breasts into even portions to display beautifully on a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a vibrant touch that enhances both color and flavor.

Accompany your chicken with seasonal vegetables or a fresh salad to create a balanced meal. The bright colors of the vegetables will complement the chicken beautifully, making for an inviting presentation.

Pairings/storage

While oven baked chicken breast pairs well with various sides like quinoa, roasted vegetables, and grains, focus on vibrant, healthy options to create a well-rounded meal. For storage, keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat thoroughly, making sure the internal temperature reaches a safe level before serving again.

Store any leftover seasoning mix in a labeled container for future meals.

If you want to meal prep, oven baked chicken breast is versatile. Create multiple servings at once, and enjoy it throughout the week in different salads, wraps, or grain bowls.

Conclusion

Oven baked chicken breast stands as a timeless classic in home cooking. With a few basic ingredients and simple techniques, anyone can create a dish that is both flavorful and satisfying. Embrace the possibilities of this versatile protein, and allow it to inspire countless meals in your kitchen. From busy weeknights to special family gatherings, oven baked chicken breast delivers consistent quality that never fails to impress. Let this recipe become a staple in your culinary adventures.

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