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The Juiciest Oven Baked Chicken Breast

High-heat oven baked chicken breast with a simple dry rub that stays juicy every time -- ready in 25 minutes and ideal for dinner or meal prep.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 230
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts 6-8 oz each, similar in size for even cooking
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika smoked or sweet
  • 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper

Equipment

  • Sheet pan or baking dish
  • Instant-read meat thermometer
  • Meat mallet

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
  2. Pat chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels. If any breast is significantly uneven in thickness, lightly pound the thick end with a meat mallet until more uniform.
  3. Rub each chicken breast on both sides with olive oil. Combine garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Sprinkle evenly over both sides of each breast, pressing gently to adhere.
  4. Arrange chicken breasts on the prepared pan with space between each piece. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes.
  5. Begin checking internal temperature at 18 minutes using an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part. Chicken is done when it reaches 165°F (74°C).
  6. Remove from oven and transfer chicken to a plate. Tent loosely with foil and rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing. This step allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

Notes

Storage: Keep whole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Freeze individually wrapped for up to 3 months. Reheating: Warm in a covered baking dish at 325°F with a splash of broth for 10-15 minutes. Spice swaps: Use taco seasoning, lemon pepper, or Cajun seasoning in place of the dry rub. Dietary: Naturally gluten-free, Keto, Paleo, and Whole30 compatible.