Easy Baked Chicken Breast with garlic, smoked paprika, and olive oil. Juicy, tender, and perfectly seasoned, this simple chicken recipe is ready in under 30 minutes. Ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or healthy high-protein meals.
Ingredients
- 1 (5–6 ounce) boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon garlic powder
- ⅛ teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions
Prepare the Oven
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
Season the Chicken
- In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- Place the chicken breast on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and rub it evenly over both sides.
- Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the chicken, coating both sides.
Bake the Chicken
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.
Rest and Serve
- Remove the chicken from the oven and cover loosely with foil. Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing to retain juices.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple and Quick: Ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Juicy and Flavorful: The seasoning and olive oil keep the chicken tender.
- Healthy: Low-calorie, high-protein, and easy to pair with vegetables or grains.
- Versatile: Works in salads, sandwiches, wraps, or served as a main dish.
Tips
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked perfectly without drying out.
- Let the chicken rest before slicing to lock in juices.
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning for better browning.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, lemon, and spices for 30 minutes before baking.
Variations and Substitutions
- Spices: Swap smoked paprika for chili powder, Italian seasoning, or Cajun seasoning.
- Oil: Use avocado oil or melted butter instead of olive oil.
- Chicken: This method works for thin chicken cutlets or larger breasts (adjust baking time accordingly).
- Toppings: Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs before serving.
FAQs
Can I bake multiple chicken breasts at once?
Yes, just make sure they are spaced evenly on the baking sheet and check that each reaches 165°F (74°C).
Can I make this ahead of time?
Cooked chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently to prevent drying.
Can I cook this in an air fryer?
Yes! Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Serving
Serve sliced or whole with roasted vegetables, salad, rice, or quinoa. Also works in wraps, sandwiches, or meal prep bowls.
Suggestions
- Add a squeeze of lemon or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor.
- Pair with garlic mashed potatoes, steamed broccoli, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- For a smoky flavor, sprinkle a little smoked paprika or chipotle powder before baking.
Baked Chicken Breast
1
servings5
minutes20
minutesIngredients
1 1 (5–6 ounce) boneless, skinless chicken breast
1 teaspoon 1 olive oil
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
⅛ teaspoon black pepper
⅛ teaspoon garlic powder
⅛ teaspoon smoked paprika
Directions
- Prepare the Oven
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
- Season the Chicken
- In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- Place the chicken breast on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and rub it evenly over both sides.
- Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the chicken, coating both sides.
- Bake the Chicken
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.
- Rest and Serve
- Remove the chicken from the oven and cover loosely with foil. Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing to retain juices.
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