Juicy Baked Chicken Breast 🍗 – Easy Oven Recipe (Perfect Every Time)

This juicy baked chicken breast recipe is a simple, fail-proof way to make tender, flavorful chicken in the oven. With just a few pantry spices and the right technique, you’ll get perfectly cooked chicken that’s never dry—ideal for meal prep, salads, or quick dinners.

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Why This Baked Chicken Breast Works

• Super juicy and tender every time
• Quick and easy with minimal ingredients
• High-protein, low-carb meal
• Perfect for meal prep or versatile recipes

This method solves the most common problem: dry, overcooked chicken breast.

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Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5–10 minutes
• Cook Time: 18–25 minutes
• Total Time: ~30 minutes
• Servings: 4–6

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Ingredients

• 2 lbs (900g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper

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How to Bake Chicken Breast (Step-by-Step)

1. Preheat & Prep

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

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2. Pound for Even Cooking

Lightly pound chicken breasts to an even thickness. This ensures they cook evenly and stay juicy.

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3. Season Generously

Pat chicken dry, rub with oil, then coat evenly with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

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4. Bake to Perfection

Bake for 18–25 minutes, depending on thickness, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

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5. Rest Before Serving

Let the chicken rest for 5–10 minutes to lock in juices before slicing.

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Cooking Time Guide

• Thin (½ inch): 16–18 minutes
• Medium (¾ inch): 20–22 minutes
• Thick (1 inch): 24–26 minutes

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Pro Tips for Juicy Chicken

• Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking
• Always rest the chicken after baking
• Don’t skip pounding to even thickness
• Pat chicken dry for better seasoning absorption

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Serving Ideas

This oven-baked chicken breast is incredibly versatile:

• Slice for salads or grain bowls
• Use in sandwiches, wraps, or tacos
• Add to pasta or casseroles
• Shred for soups or meal prep

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Nutrition (Per Serving – Approx.)

• Calories: ~196 kcal
• Protein: ~32g
• Fat: ~6g
• Carbs: ~1g

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Storage & Meal Prep

• Store in the fridge for up to 4 days
• Freeze for up to 3 months
• Reheat gently to keep moisture

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Final Thoughts

This easy baked chicken breast recipe is one of the best go-to meals for busy weeknights. It’s quick, healthy, and incredibly versatile—once you master this method, you’ll never struggle with dry chicken again.

👉 Simple ingredients + the right technique = perfect juicy chicken every time