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Close-up of glazed chicken breast served with white rice, green vegetables, and toasted almonds on a white plate.

Juicy Oven Baked Chicken Breast: The Ultimate Guide

This guide provides a simple yet effective method for cooking incredibly juicy oven-baked chicken breasts every time. With a delicious seasoning blend and precise cooking instructions, you'll achieve tender and flavorful results.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 33 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Rolling Pin or Meat Mallet
  • Baking Tray
  • Aluminum Foil
  • Baking/Parchment Paper
  • Meat Thermometer
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Serving Plates

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 4 chicken breasts 150 – 180g / 5 – 6 oz each (Note 1)
  • 2 tsp olive oil
  • 1 1/2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp dried oregano or thyme or other herb of choice
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp pepper
  • finely chopped parsley for garnish if desired

Instructions
 

Cooking Steps

  • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C), or 200°C if using a fan oven.
  • Pound each chicken breast to an even thickness of 1.5cm (0.6″) at its thickest part to ensure uniform cooking and tenderness.
  • In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, paprika, dried oregano or thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to create your seasoning blend.
  • Line a baking tray with foil and then with baking or parchment paper. Place the chicken breasts upside down on the prepared tray, drizzle with about 1 tsp of olive oil, rub it over the surface, and sprinkle evenly with the seasoning mix.
  • Flip the chicken breasts over. Drizzle the remaining 1 tsp of olive oil on top, rub it in, and then sprinkle generously with the rest of the seasoning, ensuring the entire surface is covered.
  • Bake for 18 minutes, or until the chicken surface is golden brown and a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
  • Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and immediately transfer it to individual serving plates.
  • Allow the chicken to rest for 3-5 minutes before serving to retain its juiciness. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired.

Notes

Pounding the chicken to an even thickness is crucial for achieving tender, evenly cooked results. Always allow the chicken to rest for 3-5 minutes after baking; this helps the juices redistribute, ensuring a perfectly moist and flavorful breast.