If you’ve ever sliced into dry chicken and sighed, I’ve been there too.
This Juicy Oven Baked Chicken Breast is my go-to fix when I want tender, flavorful chicken without stress. I’ve tested it on rushed weeknights and Sunday meal prep, and high heat, even thickness, and a short rest never fail me.
You’ll bake hot, cook fast, and let the juices settle right back where they belong. Give it one try, make it your own, and enjoy chicken you actually look forward to eating.
Why You’ll Love This Juicy Oven Baked Chicken Breast
- Extra juicy and tender, never dry: The chicken stays moist every time thanks to even pounding and high-heat baking. The simple truth is this method just works.
- Evenly cooked from edge to center: Pounding the chicken creates the same thickness throughout. That means no dry edges and no undercooked middle.
- Simple pantry spices, no stress: You don’t need fancy ingredients or special blends. The quick win here is big flavor with what you already have.
- Ready in under 30 minutes: This recipe is perfect for busy nights when you want real food fast. Dinner feels easy, not rushed.
- Perfect for meal prep and leftovers: The chicken stays juicy even after reheating. That’s why I make extra for the week ahead.
- Pairs with almost any side dish: From salads to rice to roasted veggies, it fits right in. The flexibility makes it a repeat favorite.
What Kind of Chicken Breast Should I Use?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the sweet spot here. They cook faster, season evenly, and are easier to keep juicy than bone-in cuts. I aim for breasts in the 6–8 ounce range because they cook evenly and stay tender. Fresh is best, but frozen works too—just thaw fully and pat dry before seasoning so nothing steams in the oven.
Options for Substitutions
You can swap chicken breasts for chicken thighs if you prefer darker meat. Thighs stay juicy and add richness. The short answer is yes, it works, just bake a bit longer. I use thighs when I want extra flavor.
Store-bought seasoning blends are fine too. Italian, all-purpose, or low-sodium mixes all work well. The key is balance, not perfection. I’ve used them on busy nights with great results.
You can also change the oil. Avocado or vegetable oil both work if olive oil isn’t handy. For dietary needs, sugar-free or low-sodium swaps are easy. The takeaway is flexibility without losing juiciness.
Ingredients for Juicy Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts
These are the best choice for juicy, even cooking. Large breasts work great when you pound them to the same thickness. The quick answer: even size means juicy chicken every time.
Olive Oil
Olive oil keeps the chicken moist while it bakes. It also helps the seasoning stick better. A small drizzle makes a big difference.
Brown Sugar
Brown sugar adds a light sweetness that balances the spices. It also helps the chicken caramelize in the oven. The result is better color and flavor.
Chili Powder
Chili powder adds gentle heat and depth. It won’t make the chicken spicy. Think warm flavor, not fire.
Cumin
Cumin brings a subtle smoky note. It adds warmth without overpowering the chicken. This spice makes the rub taste fuller.
Garlic Powder
Garlic powder spreads flavor evenly across the chicken. It won’t burn like fresh garlic can at high heat. Simple, steady flavor is the win here.
Onion Powder
Onion powder adds a savory base to the seasoning. It rounds everything out nicely. You’ll notice the balance right away.
Salt
Salt brings out the natural flavor of the chicken. It’s essential but easy to overdo. A light, even sprinkle works best.
Black Pepper
Black pepper adds mild heat and sharpness. It wakes up the other spices. Just enough gives the rub a clean finish.
Parsley Flakes (Optional)
Parsley adds a soft herb flavor and a pop of color. It’s not required, but it looks nice. I use it when I want a fresh touch.
How to Make Juicy Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Step 1: Pound the Chicken Breasts
Place the chicken between two sheets of parchment paper and pound gently. This creates even thickness so the chicken cooks evenly. The short answer: even chicken stays juicy.
Step 2: Oil the Chicken
Drizzle olive oil on both sides of the chicken breasts. This locks in moisture and helps the seasoning stick. A little oil goes a long way here.
Step 3: Season Generously
Mix your spices and rub them evenly over both sides. Make sure every spot is covered for full flavor. The quick win is balanced seasoning in every bite.
Step 4: Bake at High Heat
Bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 425°F until cooked through. High heat cooks it fast and keeps it tender. This step is key for juicy oven baked chicken breast.
Step 5: Rest Before Serving
Cover the chicken loosely with foil and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to settle back into the meat. Cutting too soon is how juiciness is lost.
How Long to Cook Juicy Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Juicy oven baked chicken breast cooks fast at high heat. Most average-size breasts take 18–22 minutes at 425°F, depending on thickness. The short answer: thicker chicken needs more time, thinner cooks faster.
The safest and juiciest cue is temperature. The chicken is done at 165°F in the thickest part, and the juices should run clear. Visually, the meat turns white with no pink center and feels firm but springy, not stiff.
Tips for Perfect Juicy Oven Baked Chicken Breast
- Pound chicken evenly
This is the biggest secret to success. Even thickness means even cooking and no dry spots. - Don’t skip the oil
Oil locks in moisture and helps the seasoning stick. A light coat is enough to protect the chicken. - Use high oven heat
Baking at 425°F cooks the chicken fast. Fast cooking equals less moisture loss. - Let the chicken rest
Resting keeps the juices inside the meat. Even five minutes makes a big difference. - Avoid overcooking
Once it hits 165°F, it’s done. Going past that is how chicken dries out.
Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking
- Skipping the pounding step
Uneven chicken cooks unevenly. Thin parts dry out before thick parts finish. - Baking at a low temperature
Low heat dries chicken over time. High heat is key for juicy results. - Over-seasoning with salt
Too much salt pulls moisture out. A balanced hand keeps the chicken tender. - Cutting too soon after baking
Slicing right away lets juices spill out. Resting keeps them where you want them. - Overcooking without checking temperature
Guessing leads to dry chicken. A thermometer takes out the stress and saves dinner.
What to Serve With Juicy Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted veggies are an easy, healthy match. They cook while the chicken bakes and soak up all the flavors. The short answer: simple and satisfying.
Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes pair perfectly with juicy chicken. They balance the spices and feel comforting. This combo always feels like home.
Steamed Rice
Steamed rice keeps things light and clean. It lets the flavor of the juicy oven baked chicken breast shine. This is my go-to for quick weeknights.
Fresh Garden Salad
A crisp salad adds freshness and crunch. It balances the warm, savory chicken nicely. The quick win is contrast and color on the plate.
Garlic Green Beans
Garlic green beans bring bold flavor with little effort. They cook fast and add crunch. This side keeps the meal fresh and simple.
Pasta or Mac and Cheese
Pasta turns this chicken into comfort food. Mac and cheese makes it kid-friendly and filling. The answer here is pure comfort.
Quinoa or Couscous
Quinoa or couscous adds a nutty bite and extra protein. They work great for meal prep bowls. This choice keeps the meal balanced and modern.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Store leftover juicy oven baked chicken breast in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to four days—the short answer is that airtight storage helps lock in moisture. For longer storage, let the chicken cool completely, then wrap it tightly or place it in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to three months, which makes it perfect for meal prep and busy weeks.
When reheating, keep the heat low and gentle to avoid drying it out; warm the chicken in a 300°F oven covered with foil or use the microwave with a damp paper towel. Low heat and added moisture are the simple keys to keeping the chicken juicy.
Estimated Nutrition
These values are based on one average 6–7 oz baked chicken breast with oil and seasoning.
- Calories: ~220–240
- Protein: ~35–38 grams
- Fat: ~7–9 grams
- Carbohydrates: ~1–3 grams
This recipe is naturally high in protein and low in carbs, making it a solid choice for balanced eating. You can lower sodium by reducing salt or using low-sodium seasoning blends. It’s one of those meals that fuels your body without feeling heavy or restrictive.
Common FAQs About Juicy Oven Baked Chicken Breast
How do I keep baked chicken breast from drying out?
Bake at high heat and avoid overcooking. Pound the chicken evenly and let it rest after baking. These steps help the juicy oven baked chicken breast stay moist.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook it ahead and store it in the fridge. It stays juicy for up to four days when sealed well. This makes weeknight meals much easier.
Do I need a meat thermometer?
A meat thermometer is the best way to avoid dry chicken. The chicken is done at 165°F in the thickest part. This keeps it safe and juicy.
Can I use this recipe for meal prep?
Yes, this recipe works great for meal prep. The chicken reheats well and stays tender. I often make extra for quick lunches.
Can I freeze baked chicken breasts?
Yes, baked chicken breasts freeze well. Let them cool, then store tightly for up to three months. Gentle reheating keeps them juicy.
Conclusion
This Juicy Oven Baked Chicken Breast is one of those recipes you can count on every time. With high heat, even thickness, and a quick rest, the chicken stays tender and full of flavor. Once you try it, you’ll see how easy it is to make juicy chicken without stress. Play with the seasoning, make it your own, and enjoy a simple meal that always delivers.
If you love juicy chicken dinners like this, you’ll also enjoy our Honey Garlic Chicken Breast recipe—simple, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights.
Juicy Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of parchment paper and pound gently until even in thickness.
- Drizzle olive oil over both sides of the chicken breasts.
- Mix brown sugar, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper, then rub evenly over both sides of the chicken.
- Bake in a preheated 425°F oven until fully cooked through.
- Remove from the oven, loosely cover with foil, and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
