Juicy Baked Chicken Breast Recipe
A simple Juicy Baked Chicken Breast Recipe made with boneless chicken breasts, garlic powder, paprika, and olive oil or butter. Baked at high heat for tender, flavorful chicken that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
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Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts pounded to an even thickness
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or olive oil
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and to allow for easier cleanup after baking.
Arrange the Chicken
- Place the chicken breasts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure that the chicken has been pounded to an even thickness so that it cooks evenly during baking.
Apply the Butter or Olive Oil
- Using a pastry brush, lightly coat both sides of each chicken breast with the melted butter or olive oil. This step helps maintain moisture during cooking and assists the seasoning mixture in adhering to the surface.
Prepare the Seasoning Blend
- In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix thoroughly to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
Season the Chicken
- Sprinkle and rub the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts, ensuring each piece is well coated.
Bake the Chicken
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the chicken for 20–25 minutes, depending on thickness. The chicken is fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Rest and Serve
- Remove the chicken from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 minutes before slicing or serving. Resting helps redistribute the juices, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.
Notes
This Juicy Baked Chicken Breast Recipe is naturally gluten-free because it does not contain wheat-based ingredients. To ensure the recipe remains gluten-free, verify that the spices and seasonings used—particularly paprika and garlic powder—are certified gluten-free and free from cross-contamination during processing.