Juicy Oven Baked Chicken Breast Recipe

Course: Main Course

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs boneless & skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tbsp avocado or olive oil
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • Ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 450 degrees F. In a medium baking dish, place chicken, drizzle with oil and sprinkle with smoked paprika, garlic powder, oregano, salt and pepper.
  • Using tongs or hands, move chicken around to coat on all sides evenly (I place bottom of breast on top of seasoned one and then swoosh around).
  • Bake for 25 minutes (under 2") to 35 minutes (2"+) or until instant meat thermometer inserted in the thickest part reads 150 degrees F. (If cooking from frozen, add 10 minutes or more to cook time)
  • Remove from the oven, cover with foil or lid, and let rest for 10 minutes for the juices to settle (don't skip!).

Notes

Choose similar size chicken breasts: I used 3 huge organic breasts that were the same in size. If you bake 5 oz chicken breast at same time as 9 oz chicken breast, I can guarantee you the smaller piece will come out rubbery and dry by the time larger one is ready.
Seasonings: You can use regular paprika, however the best chicken is with smoked one. Just buy it.:)
Coat evenly on all sides: This will not only help chicken not stick to the pan, but ensures every bit of your juicy chicken breast is flavorful!
Butter: Instead of oil, brush chicken breast with butter before roasting.
Brown sugar: Just a touch mixed in with the seasoning can help the chicken 'sweat' while it bakes creating a beautiful 'crust'.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Before serving drizzle chicken with pan juices and top with finely chopped parsley or dill.
Don't skip letting your meat rest - this ensures the chicken juices settle back into the chicken which results in the tender, juicy chicken you want.