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Oven Baked Chicken
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Enjoy crispy, juicy oven-baked chicken that's packed with flavor! This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners. With simple ingredients and a few steps, you'll have a delicious chicken meal that everyone loves. Try it tonight and savor the mouthwatering results!
This recipe is easy to make, and you can follow the guide below for a foolproof cooking experience. We've included step-by-step photos and directions, along with pro tips and tricks to ensure perfect results. Check out the most frequently asked questions and answers to master this dish!
More Recipes ⭐ Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan | Baked Hamburgers | Balsamic Pork Chops
Get ready to enjoy this American baked chicken dinner favorite that's crispy, juicy, and full of flavor! This recipe takes just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans. Whether you're cooking for family dinners, potlucks, or special occasions, this dish always impresses. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll love how delicious and effortless this recipe is—try it tonight for a meal that’s sure to please!
Ingredients
What you'll need to make this Oven Baked Chicken recipe:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- ¾ teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- ½ teaspoon of black pepper
- ¼ to ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper
Substitutions and Additions
Personalize your Oven Baked Chicken recipe by swapping out ingredients and adding delicious extras! These simple changes can make your chicken dish uniquely yours. Here are some top substitutions and additions:
Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or Parmesan for a cheesy, melty finish to your chicken. These easy substitutions and additions can easily be swapped out while still maintaining the deliciousness of this baked chicken recipe.
Substitute Chicken: Use turkey or pork chops for a different protein in your Oven Baked Chicken.
Substitute Seasonings: Swap out the traditional seasoning with Cajun or Italian spices for a flavorful twist in your baked chicken.
Add Vegetables: Toss in bell peppers, onions, or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrition in your dinner.
Substitute Marinade: Use lemon juice or balsamic vinegar instead of olive oil for a tangy marinade in your Oven Baked Chicken.
How to Make Oven Baked Chicken
Follow along with our pictures, step-by-step instructions, and tips and tricks to make the perfect Oven Baked Chicken. Let’s get started and enjoy a delicious meal!
FIRST STEP: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a 9×13 baking sheet with aluminum foil and set it aside.
SECOND STEP: Place the boneless chicken breasts on a cutting board and cover them with a piece of parchment paper.
Use a meat mallet or rolling pin and pound down the thick parts of the chicken breasts so that they cook more evenly while in the oven.
Pro Tip
You don’t want to disfigure the chicken, just pound them down enough that they are an even thickness.
THIRD STEP: In a large bowl, add chicken and olive oil. Flip the chicken over, making sure to coat all sides of the chicken breasts.
FOURTH STEP: In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
Pro Tip
Try this seasoning combination on other cuts of chicken as well.
FIFTH STEP: Place the chicken breasts bottom side up on the foil-lined baking sheet. Season them, using half of the seasoning.
Flip the chicken breasts over and season the other side using the remaining seasoning.
SIXTH STEP: Place in the oven and cook for 18 to 20 minutes. The internal temperature should be close to 165°F at this point.
SEVENTH STEP: Turn the oven to broil and let cook for four minutes or until the chicken has a nice browned color on top.
The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F on a meat thermometer at the thickest part of the breast.
How to Serve Oven Baked Chicken
This Oven Baked Chicken recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a special event. Here are three delicious ways to serve this recipe:
- Weeknight Family Dinners: This dish is kid-approved and easy to pair with mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad. It’s a comforting meal that everyone will love, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Casual Gatherings with Friends: Serve this chicken with roasted vegetables and garlic bread for a laid-back, yet flavorful meal. It's a crowd-pleaser that's perfect for game nights or casual get-togethers.
- Special Occasions: Impress your guests by serving this chicken with creamy risotto and steamed asparagus. It’s an elegant dish that works well for
- or date nights.
Why You'll Love This Oven Baked Chicken Recipe
Oven Baked Chicken is more than just a dish—it's a beloved favorite for many mouthwatering reasons:
- Crispy on the Outside, Juicy on the Inside: This recipe perfectly balances crispy, golden-brown skin with juicy, tender meat. Each bite offers a delightful contrast that keeps you coming back for more.
- Bursting with Flavor: Seasoned to perfection, this chicken delivers a savory punch with every bite. The simple yet effective seasoning blend ensures every piece is flavorful from the first taste to the last.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it's a busy weeknight or a special family dinner, this recipe fits any occasion. Its simplicity makes it a go-to favorite that satisfies both kids and adults alike.
It's not just tasty—it's a dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to every meal. Enjoy the ease of preparation and the joy of serving up a beloved family classic!
Recipe FAQ
How do I get my Oven Baked Chicken crispy?
Pat the chicken dry before seasoning. Baking at a high temperature ensures a crispy, golden-brown skin.
What’s the best temperature to bake chicken in the oven?
Bake your chicken at 400°F. This temperature locks in juices while creating a crispy exterior.
How long should I bake chicken to keep it juicy?
Bake chicken for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This keeps it juicy and tender.
Do I need to flip the chicken while baking?
No need to flip. Baking on a wire rack allows heat to circulate, crisping the skin evenly on all sides.
Serving FAQ
What’s the best way to serve Oven Baked Chicken hot?
Serve immediately after baking to maintain its crispy texture and juicy interior.
How can I keep Oven Baked Chicken warm for guests?
Cover the chicken loosely with foil and place it in a low oven (200°F) to keep it warm without drying out.
Should I let the Oven Baked Chicken rest before serving?
Yes, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
How do I serve Oven Baked Chicken at a gathering?
Slice the chicken into portions before serving, making it easier for guests to enjoy. Arrange on a platter for a beautiful presentation.
Storage FAQ
Follow these directions, tips, and tricks for the best storage of your Oven Baked Chicken. From making ahead to reheating, we've got everything you need to keep your chicken delicious!
- Can I prepare Oven Baked Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can season the chicken and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. - What’s the best way to store leftover Oven Baked Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days. - Can I freeze cooked Oven Baked Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to three months. - How do I thaw and reheat frozen Oven Baked Chicken?
Thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15 minutes. - Can I reheat Oven Baked Chicken in the microwave?
Yes, you can reheat chicken in the microwave in 30-second increments, but be careful not to dry it out.
Oven Baked Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ¾ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ to ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
DIRECTIONS
- Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a 9×13 baking sheet with foil and set aside.
- Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and cover with a piece of parchment paper. Use a meat mallet and pound down the thick parts of the chicken breasts so they cook more evenly while in the oven.
- In a large bowl, add chicken and olive oil. Flip chicken over, making sure to coat all sides of chicken breasts.
- In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Place chicken breasts bottom side up on the foil lined baking sheet. Season using half of the seasoning. Flip chicken breasts over and season using the remaining seasoning
- Place in the oven and cook for 18 to 20 minutes. The internal temperature should be close to 165°F at this point.
- Turn the oven to broil and let cook for 4 minutes, or until the chicken has a nice browned color on top.
- Chicken is done when it reaches 165°F internally at the thickest part.
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