Description
Juicy and flavorful baked chicken breasts, perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping, that transform an often-overlooked cut of meat into a succulent centerpiece.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (or 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 teaspoon fresh thyme)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C) and line a rimmed baking sheet with foil or a nonstick baking mat.
- Drizzle olive oil over each chicken breast and rub it in for even coverage.
- Season the chicken generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, thyme, and cayenne.
- Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast in the oven for 18–20 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Turn off the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain.
- Serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
Use a meat thermometer for best results and let the chicken rest after baking for juicier meat.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 25
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American