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Easy and Healthy Baked Chicken Breast Recipe for Beginners

Juicy sliced oven-baked chicken breast garnished with fresh parsley on a white plate.

A simple, juicy baked chicken breast recipe that’s healthy, flavorful, and perfect for meal prep or weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (thick cut)

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon paprika

  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground preferred)

Instructions

 

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F.

  • Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Trim any excess fat. If needed, pound chicken to even thickness for uniform cooking.

  • In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

  • Coat both sides of each chicken breast with olive oil. Then rub the seasoning blend evenly over both sides.

  • Let the chicken rest at room temperature for at least 15 minutes (or refrigerate up to 24 hours for more flavor).

  • Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil.

  • Bake for 22 to 25 minutes, depending on thickness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; chicken is done at 165°F.

  • Remove from oven and let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing against the grain and serving.

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