Oven roasted chicken breast recipe

Oven-roasted chicken breast recipe is one of the most delicious and easy ways to cook chicken recipes; it is a versatile dish that can be made for a quick weeknight meal or for a more leisurely weekend dinner. This recipe provides step-by-step instructions for making oven roasted chicken breast that is juicy and moist. And, it only requires a few ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen, all of which help to keep the chicken moist and juicy. And because it is roasted at a high oven temperature, you can be sure that the chicken will be cooked evenly throughout within a short time. 

Roasting chicken breasts in the oven always results in juicy, flavorful meat that can be enjoyed as is or used in a variety of recipes like in this chicken with spaghetti. This method of cooking chicken is also incredibly simple, requiring just a few steps before popping the chicken into the oven. You can certainly use other cuts of chicken in this recipe if you prefer-just the way I prepared these roasted chicken thighs. Also, chicken legs or drumsticks would work well too. Just keep in mind that the thighs and legs will take a bit longer to cook since they have more fat than the breasts.

This recipe for roasted chicken breast uses boneless skinless chicken breasts and when prepared properly, they can be very juicy and full of flavor. The finished product was well coated with a simple garlic butter sauce which gives the chicken an incredible flavor. This recipe will surely become one of your family’s favorites, it is perfect for anyone looking for a delicious and nutritious meal.

There are a few reasons why chicken breast is my preferred cut of chicken for cooking. First, chicken breast is leaner than other cuts of chicken, since it’s a leaner cut, it’s also lower in calories, making it a healthy option for a variety of diets. Second, It is white meat, so it tends to be more tender and moist than dark meat and it is a great source of lean protein.

Another reason why this cut of meat is great for cooking is that it is quick and easy to cook. Even if you are using boneless, skinless roasted chicken breasts or bone-in-skin-on chicken breasts, they can be cooked in a variety of ways. They can be grilled, baked, roasted, or even stir-fried. And since they’re so versatile, You can use them in a multitude of recipes.

If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy chicken recipe, look no further than this recipe for roasted chicken breast.

How long to bake chicken breast in the oven?

There are a few factors to consider when cooking or making roasted chicken breast in the oven, such as the size and thickness of the breast, the type of oven used, the desired level of doneness, and whether or not the chicken is covered while baking can all affect the amount of time it takes to bake the chicken. A general rule of thumb is to cook chicken breast for about 25-30 minutes at a temperature of 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

If you have larger or thicker pieces, you may need to increase the baking time by 5-10 minutes. If you have thinner or smaller pieces, you may only need to cook them for 15-20 minutes. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on your oven and the type of chicken you’re using. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts tend to cook a bit quicker than bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts. Also if you are using a convection oven, you can reduce the baking time by about 5 minutes. And if you are covering the pa while they bake, be sure to add 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.

The best way to ensure your chicken is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. Chicken breast should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit as recommended by the USDA before removing it from the oven. Once the chicken has reached this temperature, it is safe to eat.

How to check the internal temperature of chicken breast

To check the internal temperature of the chicken, insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the breast, making sure not to touch the bone that is if using bone-in chicken for this roasted chicken breast recipe. If you don’t have a meat thermometer, you can still make this recipe successfully. And finally, keep in mind that the meat will continue to cook for a minute or two after it has come out of the oven, so don’t be tempted to overcook it.

Ingredients for oven roasted chicken breast recipe

  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces)
  • 2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp adobo seasoning
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp red chili pepper
  • 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Ingredients for the garlic butter sauce

  • 3 minced garlic
  • 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley
Ingredients for making oven-roasted chicken breast ingredients
Roasted chicken breast ingredients

What ingredients are in the roasted chicken breast recipe?

Smoked paprika

I used smoked paprika because it adds a lovely smoky flavor to the chicken. It also gives the chicken a beautiful red color that makes it look more appetizing. You can as well use sweet paprika if that is what you have.

Chicken breasts

For this roasted chicken breast recipe, I used boneless skinless chicken breasts because they cooked evenly and came out juicy from the oven. You can either choose bone-in, skin-on with thicker flesh or with thinner flesh, it all depends on what you have on hand. But have in mind, if your chicken pieces are too thick, they will take a longer time to cook and if you are using thinner pieces, they will cook really quickly.

Adobo seasoning

Specifically, I used adobo con sazon all-purpose seasoning for this oven-roasted chicken recipe, it gives the chicken a rich flavor without being too overpowering. This seasoning can elevate a simple baked chicken recipe and also help to balance out other flavors in the dish. If you are looking for a new way to season your chicken, try using adobo seasoning.

Garlic powder

Garlic powder is a great way to add garlic flavor to chicken without having to peel and chop fresh garlic. It can help to brown the chicken breasts and give them a nice flavor. So if you’re looking for a way to add more flavor to your baked chicken recipes, or if you’re just looking for a time-saving shortcut, try using garlic powder.

Onion powder

Onion powder is a nice addition to baked chicken recipes because it is convenient especially when you don’t have any fresh onions on hand. You can add a subtle onion flavor to your chicken without overwhelming the other flavors in the dish. It’s especially good in rubs and marinades, and it can be used to make a flavorful gravy or soup. Plus, it’s super easy to keep on hand in the pantry.

Red chili flakes

Red chili flakes add a touch of heat and depth of flavor to any recipe, and they’re especially good in baked chicken dishes. Plus, they can help to crisp up the surface of the meat too.

Black pepper

Black pepper is a key ingredient in many baked chicken recipes. Not only does it add a little heat to your dish, but it also helps to create a lovely crust on the chicken as it bakes. When used in combination with other spices, it can create a unique flavor profile that will enhance the overall taste of the dish.

Extra virgin olive oil

Extra virgin olive oil is not only healthy but also imparts a delicious flavor to this baked or roasted chicken breast recipe. The oil helps keeps the chicken moist and juicy throughout the cooking time, while also infusing it with a subtle olive flavor. Additionally, it has a milder flavor than other oils, so it won’t overpower the taste of your chicken. Make sure to use quality extra virgin olive oil for this recipe or simply substitute it with avocado oil.

Salt

You can use any salt for this recipe ranging from kosher salt, and sea salt to garlic salt. Be sure to add just the right amount so it is not overpowering, Too much salt can ruin your dish.

How to prepare oven roasted chicken breasts

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Place chicken breast on a chopping board or work surface, in between two pieces of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet, rolling pin, or the bottom of a heavy skillet to gently pound the chicken until it is even in size, about ½-inch thick throughout.

Pounding chicken breast before baking helps to even out the thickness of the meat, which results in more consistent cooking.
Pounding chicken breast before baking helps to even out the thickness of the meat, which results in more consistent cooking.

Give the chicken a good rinse under a running tap to help get rid of any excess blood or impurities that may be present. You want to make sure your chicken is as clean as possible before cooking. Pat them dry with some paper towels.

Give the chicken breast a quick rinse to get rid of excess blood or impurities before seasoning
Give the chicken breasts a quick rinse to get rid of excess blood or impurities before seasoning

Drizzle about 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil all over the chicken pieces and rub to coat with your fingers. Combine black pepper, red chili, onion powder, garlic powder, adobo seasoning, salt, and smoked paprika in a small bowl and mix to incorporate.

Rubbing olive oil on the chicken breast, helps the seasoning to stick nicely on the surface of the chicken
Rubbing olive oil on the chicken breast, helps the seasoning to stick nicely on the surface of the chicken

Sprinkle the mixed seasoning on the chicken and rub to coat the surface nicely. Flip the chicken pieces over, and rub the seasonings on the opposite sides as well. Do not forget to rub the seasoning on the hidden part too.

Applying of seasoning on the chicken for extra flavor and taste
Applying seasoning on the chicken for extra flavor and taste

Spray some oil or cooking spray on your baking dish or baking sheet, transfer the seasoned chicken breasts to the greased pan, and bake for 15 minutes.

How to make roasted chicken breast in the oven
Well-seasoned chicken breast ready to be roasted in the oven

After 15 minutes, remove the dish from the oven and flip the chicken over. You can rub more of the leftover seasoning if necessary, return the dish to the oven and roast the chicken breasts for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until fully cooked through.

Basting the roasted chicken breasts with the rich juices from the pan to prevent them from drying out
You can flip the chicken breasts or baste them with some of the delicious juices in the pan, and cook again for the remaining minutes until golden brown

Check for doneness by inserting a fork or a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken breast; it should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Your oven-roasted chicken breasts are safe for eating once the internal temperature reaches165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Your oven-roasted chicken breasts are safe for eating once the internal temperature reaches165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Once they have finished cooking your chicken. Transfer it to a serving dish, and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before cutting or serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures that your chicken breast won’t be dry when you eat it.

To keep your roasted chicken breasts extra juicy and flavorful, baste them with a simple garlic butter sauce
To keep your roasted chicken breasts extra juicy and flavorful, baste them with a simple garlic butter sauce

You can baste the chicken with some of the rich juices in the pan or with garlic butter sauce for extra flavor. See the recipe notes on how to make the sauce.

Juicy roasted chicken breast recipe
Juicy roasted chicken breast recipe

And that’s it! Enjoy your delicious and juicy oven-roasted chicken breast with your favorite side dish; I paired mine with cilantro lime rice and it was such a nice combo.

You can serve roasted chicken breast with cilantro lime rice and steamed broccoli
Serving chicken breast with cilantro lime rice and steamed broccoli as a perfect side.

How to make chicken breast taste good

There are a few things you can do to make chicken breast taste good and flavorful.

  • Brine the chicken in salted water before cooking, this helps to tenderize the meat and also adds flavor.
  • Generously season your chicken with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices you enjoy.
  • Cook the chicken in a flavorful liquid such as broth or white wine. This adds moisture to the meat as well as additional flavor.
  • Try marinating the chicken breasts for a few hours or even overnight in a mixture of your favorite herbs and spices before cooking them.
  • Don’t overcook the chicken! Cooking times will vary depending on the size of your chicken breast,
  • Rest them for a few minutes before cutting. This will help to keep all of the juices in.

How do I bake chicken breast without drying it out?

Basting the chicken with the pan juices to prevent it from drying out

Baking chicken breast can sometimes result in the dry, and overcooked meat. To avoid this, there are a few things you can do. First, pound the chicken breast with a meat mallet, this will help it cook more evenly and be less likely to dry out. If you don’t have a mallet, you can use a heavy skillet or rolling pin to carry out this process.

Second, You can try marinating your chicken breast in a flavorful marinade for at least 30 minutes prior to cooking. This will help to keep the chicken moist during cooking.
Third, basting the chicken with some of the pan juices or butter during cooking also helps to keep it moist and adds flavor. Also, cooking the chicken at a high temperature (400 degrees F) for a short amount (18 to 20 minutes) also helps to prevent it from drying out.

Finally, let the chicken breast rest for a few minutes after cooking before cutting into it. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat Following these tips should result in a delicious and juicy baked chicken breast instead of dry and rubbery chicken

How long does it take to bake a chicken breast at 400?

A chicken breast typically takes about 18-30 minutes to bake at 400 degrees. The exact time will vary depending on the size and thickness, and size of the meat. For example, a thin chicken may only take 18-20 minutes to bake, while a thick piece may take 25-30 minutes to cook. It’s always best to check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer if you are unsure. The internal temperature should be at least 165 degrees before eating.

What is the best way to cook chicken breast?

There are many different ways to cook chicken breasts. The best way to cook them breasts is by baking in the oven. This method makes it quick and easy to prepare a healthy meal within a short time. This makes the baked chicken breast recipe a versatile dish that can be adapted to any number of different flavors and cuisines. For best results, I always love to go with boneless, skinless chicken . Season the chicken as desired, then place them on a baking sheet and bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit until they have cooked through. This method is simple and results in moist and flavorful chicken.

Roasting chicken breast is another great way to cook chicken because it yields juicy, flavorful meat. When cooked correctly, the chicken will be crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The skin becomes golden and slightly charred, while the meat remains moist and juicy on the inside. This cooking method also allows the chicken to absorb all of the flavors from the herbs and spices used to season it.

Another great way to cook this is by grilling it. Grilled chicken is often very moist and juicy, and has a great flavor from the charring that occurs during the cooking process.

Frying chicken breast is also another way, this method of cooking chicken can make it nice and crispy on the outside, while still keeping the inside juicy. However, this method is definitely not as healthy as baking and can add a lot of extra calories to your dish. If you’re looking for an indulgent treat though, fried chicken is definitely the way to go

Is it better to bake chicken at 350 or 400?

The best temperature to bake chicken breast will depend on the thickness of the chicken, whether it is boneless or bone-in, and also your personal preferences. If you’re looking for a juicy and tender meat then cooking it at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for a longer period of time is the way to go.

 

However, if you’re looking for a chicken breast that’s crispy on the outside and cooked through on the inside with a more pronounced flavor, then cooking it at 400 degrees Fahrenheit at a higher temperature for a shorter period of time is the way to go. This higher temperature will cook the chicken breast for a short time without drying it out or making it tough; It gives it a bit of texture and golden color. Also, it is easy to achieve a quick and flavourful meal when your chicken is cooked at this higher temperature.

In general, chicken breasts should be cooked at a temperature of 350°F for 25 to 30 minutes, or 400°F for 18 to 20 minutes. If you are using boneless, skinless pieces, they will cook more quickly at a higher temperature. But if you are using bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts, you will want to use the lower temperature to ensure that they cook gradually and do not dry out before reaching the actual doneness.

Here are some tips to help you decide what temperature and cooking time is best for your chicken
If your chicken breasts are very thin (less than 1-inch thick), cook them at 400°F for 18-20 minutes.
If they are of average thickness (1-2 inches), you can cook them at 350°F for 25-30 minutes.
Also, if your chicken pieces are thick (more than 2 inches), you can cook them at 325°F for 30-35 minutes. Keep in mind that these are guidelines only. Use a meat thermometer to check if they are cooked through before removing them from the oven.

How to serve roasted chicken breasts

The best way to serve roasted chicken breasts is as they came out hot and fresh from the oven. You can shred or slice them into thin strips and use them in a hearty soup, pasta dish, or stew. Or cut them into bite-sized pieces and put them on top of sandwiches, wraps, tacos, or burritos. They are also delicious at room temperature, so feel free to serve them just the way you want.

Roasted chicken breast pairs well with a variety of sides. Some popular options include pasta primavera, cilantro lime rice, roasted potatoes, mashed potatoes, pasta with vegetables, steamed vegetables, roasted corn on the cob, and a simple salad. For a more robust flavor, try pairing baked chicken breast with sauteed mushrooms, onions, and garlic. This hearty combination is perfect for a winter meal. If you’re looking for something light and refreshing, pair baked chicken breast with a simple green salad and a vinaigrette dressing. This combination is perfect for a summer meal.

You can also get creative and try out new things like quinoa or roasted brussels sprouts. macaroni and cheese, quinoa, or brown rice: these make perfect sides for soaking up all the delicious juices from the chicken.

There are other endless ways to dress up roasted chicken breasts. Try serving them with a flavorful sauce like this tomato sauce or by adding some grilled or roasted vegetables, or pairing it with a simple salad and some whole grain bread for a healthy and satisfying meal.  They can acan also be served with a dipping sauce or gravy on top.

Oven Roasted Chicken Breast Recipe

This oven roasted chicken breast recipe is a quick and easy weeknight dinner option. Chicken breast is lean meat, making it a healthier choice than other options like pork or beef.
The chicken is first baked in the oven until golden brown. Once out of the oven, they were smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce. This recipe only requires a few simple ingredients, and the result is a tender and juicy chicken breast that's packed with flavor and can be served as is or used in a variety of recipes. If you're looking for a delicious and easy chicken dish, look no further than this baked chicken breast recipe with garlic butter sauce!
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Roasted chicken breast, roasted chicken breast recipe
Servings: 4 People
Calories: 200kcal
Cost: 5 -10

Equipment

  • Measuring spoons
  • 9×13 Baking dish

Ingredients

  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6-8 ounces)
  • 2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp adobo seasoning
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp red chili pepper
  • ½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • ½ tsp kosher salt

For the sauce, you will need

  • 3 minced garlic cloves
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp fresh chopped parsley

Instructions

Prepare the chicken

  • Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Place chicken breasts on a chopping board or work surface, in between two pieces of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet, rolling pin, or the bottom of a heavy skillet to gently pound the chicken until it is even, about ½-inch thick throughout.
    Gently pound the chicken breast with a rolling pin for an even thickness
  • Give the chicken a good rinse under a running tap to help get rid of any excess blood or impurities that may be present. You want to make sure your chicken is as clean as possible before cooking. Pat them dry with some paper towels.
    Rinse the chicken breast to remove impurities before roasting

Apply the seasoning to the chicken

  • Drizzle about 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil all over the chicken and rub to coat with your fingers. Combine black pepper, red chili, onion powder, garlic powder, adobo seasoning, salt, and smoked paprika in a small bowl and mix to incorporate.
    Rubbing of olive oil on the chicken breasts before roasting
  • Sprinkle the mixed seasonings on the chicken and rub to coat the surface nicely. Flip the chicken pieces over, and rub the seasonings on the opposite sides as well. Do not forget to rub the seasoning on the hidden parts too.
    Rubbing of seasoning on the chicken breasts for extra flavor and taste

Cook the chicken breast

  • Spray some oil or cooking spray on your baking pan or baking sheet, transfer the seasoned chicken breasts to the greased pan, and bake for 15 minutes.
    Transferring the chicken breasts into the roasting pan 2
  • After 15 minutes, remove the dish from the oven and flip the chicken over. Return the dish to the oven and roast for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until fully cooked through.
  • Check for doneness by inserting a fork or a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken breast; it should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Rest the chicken before serving

  • Once they have finished cooking. Transfer them to a serving dish, and let the chicken rest for about 5 to 10 minutes before cutting or serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures that your chicken won’t be dry when you eat it.
    Oven roasted chicken breast recipe
  • You can baste the chicken with some of the rich juices in the pan or with garlic butter sauce for extra flavor. See the recipe notes on how to make the sauce. And that's it!
    Juicy oven roasted chicken breasts
  • Enjoy your delicious oven-roasted chicken breasts with your favorite side dish; I paired mine with cilantro lime rice and it was incredibly delicious.
    Serving roasted chicken breast with cilantro lime rice and steamed broccoli

Video

Notes

How to make garlic butter sauce

  • In a small saucepan, melt butter over low heat, add garlic and cook for a minute until fragrant.
  • Remove the pan from heat, stir in finely chopped parsley, and mix to combine
  • Pour the sauce over your roasted chicken

What other spices can you add to the oven-roasted chicken breast?

There are many other spices that can be used to flavor oven-baked chicken breasts. Some common choices include cumin, paprika, parsley, oregano, thyme, basil, and rosemary. These spices can be used alone or in combination to create a variety of flavor profiles. You can also try using garlic salt, taco seasoning, or cajun seasoning as these are great seasonings that add depth of flavor to baked chicken. Feel free to experiment with different combinations of spices to find what you like best.

How to store leftover roasted chicken breasts

You can store leftover roasted chicken breast in the refrigerator for up to 4days, This makes it a great option for meal prep. It can be easily reheated and eaten throughout the week.
To store it, allow the chicken to cool completely on the counter. Place the chicken in an airtight container with a fitting lid or wrap it tightly in a resealable bag. Place the container in the fridge and use it within 3-4 days. 
You can also freeze roasted chicken breast if you have a large batch. Wrap the chicken tightly in foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag, it can last for about 3 to 4  months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
When it has defrosted, simply reheat it in the oven or microwave until it’s warmed up. By following these simple tips, you can enjoy delicious, homemade roasted chicken anytime!

Why are my chicken breasts tough?

The most common reason why chicken breasts end up tough is that they are overcooked. These cut of meat are relatively lean, so they dry out quickly when cooked for too long. The best way to prevent this is to cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature of the chicken breasts before taking them out of the oven.

Another possibility is that you’re not using a marinade or rub. Both of these help to add flavor and moisture to the chicken, which can prevent it from becoming tough.

Your chicken breasts might be tough because they were not properly pounded thin before cooking. If they are thick, uneven pieces, they will cook unevenly and end up tough. To avoid this, use a meat mallet or a rolling pin to pound the fillets until they are about ½-inch thick all over. This will help them cook more evenly

Finally, it’s possible that you’re using chicken that isn’t fresh. Fresh chicken is more tender and less likely to be tough.

Tips to make the best juicy oven roasted chicken breasts

  • Always start with chicken that is at room temperature – this will help it cook evenly throughout.
  • Pound the chicken to even thickness- pounding the chicken fillets before baking helps to even out the thickness of the meat, which results in more consistent cooking. When chicken breasts are of even thickness, they cook more evenly and are less likely to dry out.
  • Season the chicken breasts with a good amount of seasonings, herbs, or spices of your choice. This will help to add flavor and keep them moist. 
  • Marinate your chicken in a flavorful marinade for at least 30 minutes prior to cooking. This will help to keep the chicken moist during cooking.
    Baste the chicken with pan juices or butter during the cooking process, this helps to keep it moist and adds extra flavor.
  • Don’t overcook the chicken or you will end up with a dry, tough, or rubbery chicken. The best way to avoid overcooking chicken breast is to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meat. Chicken is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

When it comes to quick and easy weeknight dinners, roasted chicken breast is always a winner in our kitchen. And when you top it with a delicious garlic butter sauce, it’s even better! This dish is so simple to make, it only requires a few ingredients and is sure to please even the most discerning palate! Plus, it’s ready in just 30 minutes. Do give it a try and let me know your thoughts in the comments.

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