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These juicy oven baked chicken breasts are my go to recipe when I need something simple and flavorful for dinner. Lean chicken breasts turn out tender every time with the right seasoning blend and a quick roast in the oven. You can serve them with any side or meal and they are perfect for meal prepping healthy lunches and dinners.
Every time I make this chicken my kids eat it without complaint and I love that I can prep several at once for easy meals all week. Leftovers are never a problem with these around.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Choose breasts that are all similar thickness for even baking
- Olive oil: Helps the seasonings stick and keeps the chicken moist Look for extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor
- Light brown sugar: Balances spice with a hint of sweetness Use soft fresh sugar for even seasoning
- Chili powder: Brings subtle heat and color Use your favorite brand and check it for freshness
- Garlic powder: Easy way to add flavor without peeling or mincing Look for no clump powder
- Onion powder: Adds sweetness and depth Choose a fresh bottle for stronger taste
- Salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out moisture Use fine sea salt if possible
- Black pepper: Provides sharpness to balance the sweet and spicy flavor Use freshly cracked for extra punch
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to four hundred twenty five degrees Fahrenheit and let it heat up fully This ensures even cooking and proper browning of the chicken
- Pound the Chicken Even:
- Place the chicken breasts between layers of parchment or plastic wrap and use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound them to about half an inch thick This step ensures the breasts cook evenly and stay juicy
- Season the Chicken:
- Rub the chicken all over with olive oil so the next layer of seasoning sticks Mix your brown sugar chili powder garlic powder onion powder salt and black pepper in a small bowl Then coat both sides of the chicken breasts thoroughly with this seasoning blend for deep flavor in every bite
- Arrange on Baking Sheet:
- Spread the seasoned chicken breasts evenly on a lightly greased baking sheet or dish Make sure there is space between them for air to circulate which helps get even cooking
- Bake and Rest:
- Roast the chicken in your preheated oven for about twenty minutes until an instant read thermometer reads one hundred sixty five degrees in the thickest spot Do not overbake Let the chicken rest for five minutes after baking so the juices redistribute
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My favorite way to serve this is sliced over a big salad with whatever veggies I have on hand The brown sugar and chili powder combination has won over even my picky eaters and this recipe is part of our regular dinner routine
Storage Tips
Keep any extra baked chicken covered tightly in the refrigerator for three to four days It is perfect for quick lunches or shredding into soups and casseroles You can also freeze cooked chicken for up to two months Slice or cube it first for faster thawing
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap chicken breasts for boneless thighs if you prefer darker meat or want extra juiciness Honey can replace brown sugar if that is what’s on hand For a different seasoning flavor try smoked paprika in place of chili powder or add a pinch of dried herbs
Serving Suggestions
Serve these chicken breasts warm as a main dish with rice or roasted veggies Try slicing them for sandwiches or wraps Toss slices over pasta or mix with mayo for a simple chicken salad My kids love to dip pieces in ranch or barbecue sauce on busy nights
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Cultural and Historical Context
Oven baked chicken has been a comfort food staple in American kitchens for decades Simple roasted chicken is loved around the world You will find versions seasoned with spices and baked in ovens everywhere from family tables in the South to weeknight dinners in Europe
Commonly Asked Questions
- → How do I keep chicken breasts juicy when baking?
Pounding chicken to an even thickness and baking at a high temperature helps keep them moist and tender.
- → Can I use other seasonings?
Absolutely. The blend can easily be swapped for different herbs and spices, such as smoked paprika, Italian herbs, or cumin.
- → How do I know when the chicken is done?
Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F using a meat thermometer for safe, fully cooked chicken.
- → What are good side dishes for this?
Serve with rice, roasted vegetables, salads, or tuck sliced chicken into sandwiches or wraps for variety.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Keep cooked chicken covered in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently to maintain juiciness.
- → Is meal prep possible with this chicken?
Yes, bake a batch to use throughout the week in salads, burritos, or grain bowls for easy lunches and dinners.