![- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - Salt and pepper - Juice of 1 fresh lemon - Chopped fresh parsley for garnish Gather these ingredients first. Fresh ingredients will give your chicken the best taste. The olive oil helps keep the chicken moist. The spices add great flavor to each bite. Using lemon juice gives a nice zing. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and taste. For the chicken, I love using large, boneless, and skinless breasts. They cook evenly and stay juicy. The garlic and onion powder blend well for a savory kick. Smoked paprika adds a hint of smokiness that elevates the dish. Oregano and thyme bring herbal notes that balance the flavors. Don’t forget salt and pepper to enhance everything. These simple ingredients work together to make your chicken shine. When you combine them, you create a dish that is hard to resist. For the full recipe, check out the cooking instructions that follow. This dish is easy, flavorful, and perfect for any meal. 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). This helps cook the chicken evenly. 2. In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. This spice blend adds great flavor. 3. Take the chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This step helps the chicken get a nice sear. 4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken breasts. Make sure they are coated well. 5. Sprinkle the spice mix on both sides of the chicken. Rub it in gently to help the flavors stick. 1. Place the seasoned chicken in a baking dish. Lay them flat and don’t overlap them. 2. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over each chicken breast. This gives a bright taste. 3. Bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check. The chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) inside. 4. After baking, take the chicken out and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps the juices stay inside. 1. To plate the baked chicken, slice it nicely and arrange it on a plate. 2. Serve over steamed veggies or with a light salad for a healthy balance. 3. Add a lemon wedge on the side. This makes it look nice and lets guests add extra flavor. For the complete recipe, check the [Full Recipe]. Patting the chicken dry is key. This step helps the seasoning stick and prevents steaming. If the chicken is wet, it won’t get nice and crispy on the outside. For best results, bake your chicken at 400°F (200°C). This temperature seals in moisture while cooking evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Always check the chicken's internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (75°C) for safety. Citrus and herbs bring amazing flavor. Fresh lemon juice elevates the dish. Try using fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for more taste. You can also marinate the chicken ahead of time. A simple mix of olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic works great. Let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This soaking time makes the chicken tender and flavorful. Overcooking is a common mistake. If you bake the chicken too long, it can dry out. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. Look for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you cut the chicken and the juices run clear, it’s ready. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking. This step allows juices to settle, keeping the chicken moist. For a full, detailed recipe, refer to the [Full Recipe]. {{image_4}} You can change the taste of your baked chicken easily. Adding different spices or marinades can create a new dish each time. Try cumin for a warm flavor or chili powder for a kick. You can also add some soy sauce or honey for a sweet glaze. Mixing herbs can also make a big difference. A blend of rosemary, basil, and thyme gives your chicken a fresh taste. Experiment with your favorites. The more you try, the more fun it is! Baking is great, but you can also grill or pan-sear your chicken. Grilling gives it a smoky flavor that many love. Just remember to watch the time, so it stays juicy. Pan-searing is fast and gives a nice crust. If you're in a hurry, use an air fryer. It cooks quickly and keeps the chicken juicy. Plus, it uses less oil, which is a bonus for health. You can get creative when serving your chicken. Turn it into a salad or wrap for a quick lunch. Just slice the chicken and mix it with greens and your favorite dressing. You can also add it to pasta dishes or stir-fries. It works well with veggies and sauces. Just toss everything together for a tasty meal. For the full recipe, don't forget to check out the instructions I shared! To keep your juicy baked chicken breast fresh, store it correctly. First, let the chicken cool down. Then, place it in an airtight container. This helps keep moisture in and prevents any bad smells. Make sure to refrigerate leftovers within two hours of cooking. Always use leftovers within three to four days for the best taste. If you want to save your chicken for longer, try freezing it. Wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Then, place it in a freezer-safe bag. This way, it can last up to three months. Remember to label the bags with the date! When reheating your chicken, you want to keep it juicy. One great method is to use the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in a baking dish, and cover it with foil. This keeps the moisture in. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warm. Another option is using a microwave. Place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate. Add a splash of water and cover it with a lid. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds to avoid drying it out. You can also get creative with leftovers! Chop the chicken and toss it in salads or wraps. You can even add it to pasta dishes for a quick meal. Knowing how long your chicken stays fresh is key. In the fridge, cooked chicken lasts about three to four days. If you freeze it, it stays good for about three months. Always check for signs of spoilage. If the chicken smells sour or looks off, it's best to discard it. You want to enjoy your meal, not risk your health! For more details on making this dish, check out the Full Recipe. To make chicken breast tender, you can use a few great techniques. First, pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps the spices stick better. Next, use a marinade with acid, like lemon juice or vinegar. This breaks down proteins and keeps the meat juicy. You can also bake the chicken gently. Cooking it at the right temperature helps keep it moist. The best temperature to bake chicken breast is 400°F (200°C). This heat cooks the chicken evenly and keeps it juicy. Make sure to use a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to be safe to eat. Yes, you can marinate chicken overnight! Marinating adds flavor and moisture to the meat. Use a mix of oil, acid, and spices for the best results. Just make sure not to leave it too long in acidic marinades. This can make the chicken mushy. You can serve baked chicken with many tasty sides. Steamed vegetables, like broccoli or carrots, work well. A fresh salad with greens and a tangy dressing is also a great choice. You could also serve it with rice or quinoa for a hearty meal. Mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes add comfort and flavor. Baking chicken breast at 400°F takes about 20-25 minutes. The exact time may change based on the size of the chicken breasts. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part. Let it rest for 5 minutes after cooking for the best taste. For the full recipe, you can check out the main article. Baking chicken breast can be simple and rewarding. We explored the ingredients, preparation, and cooking steps to achieve juicy chicken. Use the tips and variations to add your personal touch. Proper storage ensures you enjoy leftovers without waste. Remember to keep your chicken tender and watch for doneness. With these techniques, you can serve delicious meals again and again. Stay confident in your cooking journey!](https://meltedrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/b4b3d3e9-3b8b-4700-9042-88b17e7a8295-300x300.webp)
- Juicy Baked Chicken Breast
Savor the flavor of juicy baked chicken breast with this easy recipe! Perfectly seasoned with garlic, smoked paprika, and fresh lemon, it's a guaranteed hit for any dinner table. In just 35 minutes, you can create a delicious meal that stays moist and tasty. Click through to discover step-by-step instructions and tips for presentation that will impress your family and friends. Transform your dinner routine today!