Foolproof Flavourpacked Baked Chicken Breast
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Fancy a baked chicken breast that's actually juicy ? Honestly, who doesn't? Forget those dry, rubbery chicken nightmares. This recipe is dead easy and seriously tasty.
Brief Overview
This recipe is proper comfort food. Easy chicken oven dinner recipes don't get much simpler. It's dead easy. Only takes about 40 minutes from start to finish.
This recipe makes enough for four hungry people.
Main Benefits
This juicy baked chicken breast recipe is great for you. It's packed with protein for muscles. It is also great for a quick weeknight dinner.
It is also brilliant for meal prep. It's all about maximum flavour with minimum fuss.
Why This Recipe Rocks
Here's the thing, baking chicken can be tricky. You know? The best way to cook chicken breast is to keep it moist.
This recipe gives you that result. The marinade works wonders and the baking time is spot on.
The secret? A quick marinade and careful cooking. My mate Sarah always overcooks her chicken. Her chicken is dry like the Sahara.
I showed her this recipe, and now even she makes delicious chicken. Imagine!
Ingredients for the Best Baked Chicken
Here's what you'll need for my simple baked chicken breast recipe:
- Four boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Each should be about 6oz.
- Two tablespoons of olive oil.
- One tablespoon of lemon juice.
- One tablespoon of Dijon mustard.
- One teaspoon of dried thyme.
- One teaspoon of garlic powder.
- Half a teaspoon of paprika.
- A quarter of a teaspoon each of salt and pepper.
Perfect for Loads of Occasions
This healthy easy meals for family option is spot on. It works for a quick summer dinner ideas for family , but equally as well on a cold winter evening.
Baked chicken breast meal prep is also a great way to have a good meal ready for the week.
Temperature is Key
The most crucial part is getting the internal temperature right. You need to use a thermometer. Insert it in the thickest part.
It should reach 165° F ( 74° C) . Trust me. Don't skip this step.
Ingredients & Equipment
Let's get ready to make the best baked chicken breast ever! Honestly, it's way easier than you think. I used to be intimidated, but no more! This recipe is perfect for those easy chicken oven dinner recipes we all crave.
I'm all about healthy easy meals for family , especially on busy weeknights. It's also one of the quick summer dinner ideas for family for the win!
Main Ingredients: Sorted for SEO
Here's your list , sorted for a right proper SEO blitz, like a good cuppa on a rainy day. We need the perfect stuff for this juicy baked chicken breast recipe .
- Chicken Breasts: 4 boneless, skinless ones, around 6 oz/170g each. Look for plump chicken, not pale and sad ones.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (30ml) . Extra virgin is best.
- Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon (15ml) . Freshly squeezed is the way to go!
- Dijon Mustard: 1 tablespoon (15ml) . Adds a tangy kick.
- Dried Thyme: 1 teaspoon (5ml) .
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon (5ml) .
- Paprika: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) . Adds colour and a bit of smokiness.
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) . Don't skimp!
- Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) . Freshly ground if you've got it.
Seasoning Notes: Flavour Bombs!
This combo is magic. Thyme, garlic powder, and paprika are besties. Lemon juice brightens everything up. Dijon gives it a certain je ne sais quoi .
For an oven baked chicken breast marinade , this hits the spot. If you are trying chicken breast recipes in oven ? Add a touch of rosemary.
You can also substitute dry mustard, or add onion powder!
Equipment: Keep It Simple
Honestly, you don't need fancy gadgets.
- Baking Sheet: A standard one will do.
- Foil or Parchment: Optional, but makes cleanup a breeze.
- Small Bowl: For mixing the marinade.
- Whisk or Fork: To get that marinade all mixed up.
- Meat Thermometer: Crucial . We want to reach baked chicken breast internal temperature of 165° F ( 74° C) . This is the best way to cook chicken breast , trust me.
Using a meat thermometer is the key. Seriously, I ruined so much chicken before I got one. Now, simple baked chicken breast is my jam! I'm happy to share that if you follow this recipe you will find this recipe is baked chicken breast meal prep friendly too!
Foolproof & Flavour Packed Baked Chicken Breast
Honestly, who doesn't love a good chicken breast recipes in oven ? But let's be real, sometimes they come out dry and bland, like eating cardboard.
It's a shame, innit? Well, fear not! This recipe is my secret to guaranteed juicy and flavourful baked chicken breast .
This is going to be one of your favourite easy chicken oven dinner recipes
I was a bit skeptical. Can you make good recipes with a Simple Baked Chicken Breast ? I've experimented and finally found the best way to cook chicken breast in the oven! It's perfect for a quick weeknight meal and even better for baked chicken breast meal prep .
Let's get cracking, shall we? It's also one of the Healthy Easy Meals For Family
Prep Steps: Your Essential Mise en Place
First things first, gather your ingredients. We're using simple but effective flavours, so quality is key. Get out your 4 chicken breasts, olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard , and spices.
Make sure you have a baking sheet ready.
Time saving tip: Whisk your marinade ingredients together while the oven is preheating. It's all about working smart, not hard, isn't it? And remember, always wash your hands before and after handling raw chicken.
Food safety, first! This is going to be a great one of our Quick Summer Dinner Ideas For Family .
step-by-step to Juicy Perfection
- Preheat your oven to 375° F ( 190° C) . Get that oven nice and toasty.
- Whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of paprika, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper in a bowl. That's your flavour bomb right there.
- Place chicken in a dish or bag, pour that marinade over, and let it sit for at least 15 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the fridge.
- Line a baking sheet (optional, but makes cleanup easier).
- Bake for 20- 25 minutes until the internal temperature hits 165° F ( 74° C) . This is crucial! Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Let the chicken rest for 5- 10 minutes before slicing. Honestly, this makes all the difference.
Pro Tips for the Win!
Don't overcook it! A little pink is okay, but dry chicken is a no-no. Always check the baked chicken breast internal temperature .
This should give you a Juicy Baked Chicken Breast Recipe Pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness ensures they cook evenly.
It's a simple trick that yields great results.
Making a oven baked chicken breast marinade ahead of time is a great way to save time during the week.
Just pop the chicken in the marinade the night before and you're good to go. I have been there with Baked Chicken Breast Meal Prep .
That's a game changer right?
Recipe Notes
Right then, let's talk shop about this Foolproof & Flavour Packed baked chicken breast ! Honestly, this isn't just some random recipe I threw together.
This is tried and tested. I make this at least twice a month.
Serving Suggestions - Ace Presentation!
Presentation is key. This juicy baked chicken breast recipe deserves a bit of flair. Slice it thinly and fan it out.
Drizzle it with the pan juices. It looks proper fancy. Some easy chicken oven dinner recipes go great with a colourful side salad.
Roasted veggies are your best bet too. A crisp white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc would be lovely. You know? Something easy , like this recipe.
Storage Tips Keeping it Fresh
If you have leftovers, pop them in the fridge pronto. They'll be good for 3-4 days. Make sure your fridge is set at below 40° F ( 4° C) .
You can freeze cooked chicken. Wrap it tight in cling film and foil. It will last up to 3 months.
Need a baked chicken breast meal prep option? Freeze individual portions for easy lunches. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
Add a splash of water to keep it moist.
Variations - Shake Things Up!
Feeling adventurous? Why not swap the thyme for rosemary? It gives a lovely earthy flavour. For a dietary twist, use gluten-free Dijon mustard.
Easy peasy! Seasonal swaps are brilliant too. In the summer, add a squeeze of lime instead of lemon. Quick summer dinner ideas for family ? Try serving with a fresh salsa.
Oh my gosh, so tasty! I have other chicken breast recipes in oven , but this one's my go-to.
Nutrition Basics - Fueling Your Body
This simple baked chicken breast is proper good for you. It's packed with protein. Each serving is around 250 calories.
That keeps you full and satisfied. It's a fantastic source of lean protein. That's vital for muscle building and repair.
Looking for healthy easy meals for family ? This is a winner.
Cooking the best way to cook chicken breast is easy. Just follow these simple steps. Getting the baked chicken breast internal temperature right is critical.
Remember 165° F ( 74° C) . You’ve got this! Oven baked chicken breast marinade ? This is yours.
So there you have it! Go on, give this recipe a go. You'll create a masterpiece. Don't be scared, be excited.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I stop my baked chicken breast from being dry?
Ah, the age-old question! No one wants chicken drier than a vicar's wit. The key is not to overcook it. Use a meat thermometer it's your best friend here. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing; this locks in the juices like Fort Knox.
What's the best temperature to bake chicken breast?
For this recipe, we recommend baking your chicken breast at 375°F (190°C). This temperature allows the chicken to cook through evenly without drying out too quickly. Remember to use a meat thermometer to check for doneness and don't rely solely on cooking time, as ovens can vary.
Can I marinate the chicken for longer than 15 minutes?
Absolutely! While 15 minutes is a good starting point, you can marinate the chicken for up to 4 hours in the fridge. Longer marinating times allow the flavours to penetrate deeper into the chicken, resulting in an even more delicious and flavourful baked chicken breast.
Just ensure it's properly covered and refrigerated.
How can I add even more flavour to my baked chicken breast?
Flavour town, here we come! Consider experimenting with different herbs and spices in your marinade. Italian seasoning, fresh rosemary, or a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a delightful twist.
You could also try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dollop of Greek yogurt to your marinade for extra depth and tenderness.
How do I store leftover baked chicken breast?
Leftovers are the business! Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the oven, microwave, or pan-fry to prevent it from drying out.
Is baked chicken breast healthy?
Baked chicken breast is a fantastic choice for a healthy meal! It's packed with protein and relatively low in fat. Using a simple marinade like the one in this recipe keeps it light and nutritious. Just be mindful of portion sizes and serve with plenty of vegetables for a balanced meal.
Foolproof Flavourpacked Baked Chicken Breast
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 250 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 8g |
| Fiber | 2g |
