Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz / 170g each)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap and use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound them to an even ½ to ¾ inch thickness. Pat the chicken completely dry with paper towels.
Oil and Season: Place the dry chicken breasts in a bowl and drizzle with olive oil, tossing to coat evenly. In a separate small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Coat Generously: Sprinkle the seasoning mixture generously over all sides of the chicken breasts, using your hands to rub it in.
Arrange and Bake: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer in your prepared baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, depending on the thickness.
Check for Doneness: The chicken is done when it is cooked through and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165°F (74°C).
- Rest Before Serving: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest on a cutting board for 5-10 minutes. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender result. Slice against the grain and serve.
Notes
Pounding is Key: Pounding the chicken to an even thickness is the most important secret to ensuring it cooks evenly and quickly without drying out.
Dry for a Better Sear: Always pat the chicken completely dry with paper towels before oiling and seasoning. This helps the seasonings adhere and allows the chicken to develop a beautiful golden-brown color in the oven.
Don’t Overcook: The number one cause of dry chicken is overcooking. A meat thermometer is the most reliable tool to ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly to 165°F (74°C) and no higher.
Resting is a Must: Do not skip the resting period! This simple act of patience allows the juices to settle back into the meat, guaranteeing a tender and juicy chicken breast.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 295 kcal
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Protein: 48g