There’s something about the aroma of chicken baking in the oven that feels like a warm hug — perhaps it’s nostalgia, or just the promise of a satisfying meal that’s about to unfold. I remember last Thanksgiving, my aunt made her famous oven-baked chicken, and we could barely wait to dig in. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just someone who loves a good home-cooked dinner, these simple recipes are bound to make your taste buds dance with joy.
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Flatten the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1.5 cm (0.6 inches) using a rolling pin or meat mallet for uniform cooking and tenderness.
- Combine the seasoning ingredients: brown sugar, paprika, oregano or thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Line a baking tray with foil and parchment paper. Place the chicken breasts on the tray, drizzle with olive oil, and rub it over the surface. Sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over the chicken.
- Flip the chicken breasts over, drizzle with more olive oil, rub it in, and coat them with the remaining seasoning.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18 minutes, or until the chicken is golden and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Remove the chicken from the oven and transfer it to serving plates. Allow the chicken to rest for 3-5 minutes before garnishing with fresh parsley and serving.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts, weighing between 150 – 180g / 5 – 6 oz each
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1 1/2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme, or another herb of your choice
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- Finely chopped parsley
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1144cal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 184g | Fat: 28g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: N/A | Monounsaturated Fat: N/A | Cholesterol: 508mg | Sodium: 1612mg | Potassium: 1588mg | Sugar: 16g | Vitamin A: 1300IU | Vitamin C: 6.8mg | Calcium: 44mg | Iron: 2.4mg
FAQ
- What makes the Oven Baked Chicken Breast juicy?
- The secret to the juiciness of this baked chicken breast is the addition of brown sugar in the seasoning. It causes the chicken to sweat while baking, creating a semi-sauce and ensuring the meat remains moist.
- How do I know when the chicken breast is fully cooked?
- The chicken breast is cooked to perfection when its surface is beautifully caramelised. You can also check with a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C.
- What is the ideal cooking time and temperature for chicken breast?
- A medium-sized chicken breast should be baked at 220°C/425°F for 18-20 minutes. Cooking it at this high temperature ensures a delicious caramelised crust and juicy interior.
- Can I use this recipe for chicken thighs instead of breasts?
- Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Adjust the cooking time to 25 minutes for small/medium-sized thighs and 30 minutes for larger ones.
- What sides pair well with Oven Baked Chicken Breast?
- This chicken pairs well with sides like Garlic Butter Rice with Kale, Lemon Potato Salad, or a fresh Spring Salad. For a carb option, try flavored rice like Tomato Basil Rice or Mushroom Rice.
Tips
- For optimal juiciness and tenderness, pound the chicken breast to an even thickness with a rolling pin or meat mallet before baking. This ensures even cooking and helps tenderize the meat.
- Use the simple seasoning mix of brown sugar, paprika, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. The brown sugar not only adds a touch of sweetness but also helps the chicken retain moisture, creating a juicy texture.
- Bake the chicken at a high temperature of 220°C / 425°F for 18-20 minutes. This ensures a beautifully caramelized crust while keeping the inside juicy.
- Allow the baked chicken to rest for 3-5 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, enhancing the overall flavor and juiciness.
Equipment
- Meat Mallet – For pounding the chicken to even thickness, although a rolling pin or fist can also be used.
- Meat Thermometer – To ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F/75°C for safe consumption.
- Baking Tray – While many people have these, some might need a specific size or type for optimal results.
