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Looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious meal? This Juicy Chicken Breast in 30-Minute Baked recipe is your answer! Perfectly seasoned and baked to tender perfection, it’s a weeknight dinner hero that’s ready in no time.
I remember the first time I made this Juicy Chicken Breast in 30-Minute Baked for my family. The kitchen smelled amazing, and the chicken turned out so tender and flavorful that everyone asked for seconds. It’s been a staple in our home ever since!
Get ready to cook up a storm with this easy and satisfying recipe.
What to Expect
- Time: 30 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
Before You Begin
Before you start, make sure to preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Also, have a meat pounder or rolling pin ready to ensure your chicken breasts are of even thickness for consistent cooking.
Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Medium sized chicken breasts | 4 (about 2 pounds, or 7-8 ounces each) |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Onion powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Paprika | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried parsley | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried mustard | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Chili powder (optional) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Kosher salt | 1 1/2 teaspoons, or to taste |
| Black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Olive oil or avocado oil | 2 tablespoons |
Step-by-Step Guide
- Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly grease a large baking dish or rimmed baking sheet.
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat pounder or rolling pin. This ensures even cooking.
- In a bowl, toss the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried parsley, dried mustard, chili powder (if using), kosher salt, black pepper, and olive oil or avocado oil until evenly coated.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the baking dish, spacing them evenly apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Allow the chicken breasts to rest for several minutes before slicing. Brush with pan juices, then slice, serve, and enjoy!
Pointers for Perfection & How to Store
For the juiciest chicken, make sure not to overcook it. Using a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature is key. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For more delicious recipes, check out this Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken.
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Juicy Chicken Breast in 30-Minute Baked
- Total Time: 30
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Juicy Chicken Breast recipe puts an end to dry, rubbery poultry forever. Ready in just 30 minutes, this method uses a simple seasoning rub and a specific pan-searing technique to create a golden crust on the outside and an incredibly succulent, tender interior. Naturally gluten-free and low-carb, it is the ultimate protein staple for salads, meal prep, or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approx. 1 lb total)
1 tablespoon olive oil (plus 1 teaspoon for the pan)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano (or Italian seasoning)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional, for basting)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken (Crucial Step): Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and cover with plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the thickest parts until the breast is an even thickness (about ¾-inch thick). This ensures they cook evenly without drying out.
2. Season: In a small bowl, mix the paprika, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Drizzle the chicken with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and rub the spice mixture generously over both sides.
3. Heat the Pan: Heat the remaining teaspoon of olive oil (and butter if using) in a large skillet (cast iron is best) over medium-high heat. Wait until the pan is hot and shimmering.
4. Sear: Place the chicken in the hot pan. Cook undisturbed for 5–6 minutes. You want a nice golden-brown crust to form. If you try to flip it and it sticks, it’s not ready—give it another minute.
5. Flip and Finish: Flip the chicken breasts. Reduce the heat to medium. Cook for another 5–7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Rest (Don’t Skip!): Remove the chicken from the pan and place it on a clean plate or cutting board. Loosely tent with foil and let it rest for at least 5–8 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
7. Serve: Slice against the grain and serve immediately.
Notes
Pounding: Do not skip pounding the chicken! If the breast is thick at one end and thin at the other, the thin end will dry out before the thick end cooks.
Room Temperature: Take the chicken out of the fridge 15 minutes before cooking. Cooking cold meat in a hot pan can cause it to seize and become tough.
Checking Doneness: Use an instant-read thermometer. Pull the chicken off the heat at 160°F—the temperature will rise to the safe 165°F while resting.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Perfect for cold chicken salad the next day.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 12
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 0
- Sodium: 620
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Unsaturated Fat: 7
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 1
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 42
- Cholesterol: 85
Your Burning Questions Answered!
- Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead?
- Yes, you can, but adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
- Is this recipe gluten-free?
- Absolutely! All the ingredients used are naturally gluten-free.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can season the chicken and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking
Dig In & Enjoy!
This Juicy Chicken Breast in 30-Minute Baked is a versatile and quick meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal in no time. For more delicious ideas, follow me on Pinterest.