Juicy Baked Chicken Breast at 425°F
Learn how to bake chicken breast that stays juicy every time using a high-heat method perfect for weeknight dinners and meal prep.
- Prep Time: 5 min
- Cook Time: 20 min
- Total Time: 25 min
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6–8 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F. Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
- Pat the chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels. This step helps the seasoning adhere and promotes better browning.
- In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and oregano to create your best chicken seasoning blend.
- Rub the olive oil evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
- Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the chicken, pressing gently so the spices stick.
- Place the seasoned chicken on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165°F. For juicy baked chicken breast, avoid overcooking.
- 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 for retaining moisture.
- Slice the chicken against the grain for serving in salads or bowls.
Notes
- For meal prep chicken, allow the cooked breasts to cool completely before storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- If your chicken breasts vary significantly in thickness, pound the thicker end slightly so they cook more evenly.
- This recipe provides a high protein dinner base that works well for quick lunches.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 breast
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 7
- Saturated Fat: 1
- Unsaturated Fat: 6
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 1
- Fiber: 0
- Protein: 44
- Cholesterol: 140