Oven Baked Chicken Breast is a delicious and healthy meal that combines tender chicken breasts with a crispy, golden crust. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Why This Oven Baked Chicken Breast Is the Best
- Golden and Crispy: The breading on the chicken breasts creates a golden, crispy crust that adds texture and flavor.
- Juicy Chicken: The chicken breasts are baked to perfection, ensuring they remain juicy and tender.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is straightforward and can be made in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile: You can serve this dish with a variety of sides, making it a versatile option for any meal.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a weeknight meal, or looking for a quick and delicious dinner option, Oven Baked Chicken Breast is the perfect choice. The combination of crispy crust and tender chicken makes it a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredient Notes
Chicken breasts: Four boneless, skinless pieces ensure a lean and healthy protein source.
Seasonings:
- Kosher salt: Enhances flavor and helps with moisture retention.
- Garlic powder: Adds savory depth and aroma.
- Dried parsley: Contributes a mild, herbal flavor and a touch of color.
- Paprika: Imparts a subtle sweetness and vibrant color.
Binding and coating:
- Mayonnaise: Acts as a binder, keeping the chicken moist and helping the breadcrumbs adhere.
- Seasoned Panko breadcrumbs: Provide a crispy texture when baked, enhancing the overall crunch.
- Shredded Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory, cheesy flavor and helps with browning.
- Serving suggestion: Lemon wedges add a fresh, zesty brightness to the dish when squeezed over the chicken.
Tips for Making the Best Oven Baked Chicken Breast
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh, high-quality chicken breasts.
- Don’t Overbake: Bake the chicken just until it is done to ensure it stays moist and tender.
- Bread Evenly: Ensure each chicken breast is evenly coated with breading for a consistent texture.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the chicken immediately after baking to enjoy the best texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- With Rice: Serve Oven Baked Chicken Breast over a bed of steamed white or brown rice for a complete meal.
- With a Side Salad: Pair it with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- With Steamed Vegetables: Add some steamed broccoli or green beans on the side for a nutritious touch.
- With Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make a perfect complement to the crispy chicken.
- With Lemon Wedges: Add a wedge of lemon for a fresh and tangy touch.
- With Garlic Bread: Serve with garlic bread for an extra touch of flavor.
- With Quinoa: Enjoy it with quinoa for a healthy and satisfying meal.
A Must Try
There’s nothing quite like the taste of homemade Oven Baked Chicken Breast. This dish is the perfect way to treat yourself or your loved ones to something special. Crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home.
Be sure to check out these other delicious dinner recipes!
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Skillet Citrus Chicken Tenders
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Creamy Ranch Chicken
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Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce
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Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Ingredients
- 4 6 ounce boneless skinless chicken breasts
- kosher salt Diamond Crystal Kosher
- 3/4 Tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 Tsp dried parsley
- 1/2 Tsp paprika
- 1 1/2 Tbsp mayonnaise
- 1/3 cup seasoned Panko Breadcrumbs
- 2 Tbsp shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 lemon cut into wedges for serving
Instructions
Brine the chicken:
- Gently pound the thicker end of the chicken breasts to ensure both sides are even, promoting even cooking.
- In a large bowl, combine 6 cups of water with 1/4 cup of Diamond Crystal kosher salt, stirring until it dissolves. If you're using table salt, sea salt, or Morton's, reduce the amount to half.
- Submerge the chicken breasts in the brine, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 2 hours.
- Once brining is complete, take the chicken out, pat it dry with paper towels, and discard the brine.
Bake the chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F and lightly spray a 9x12 baking dish with olive oil.
- In a small bowl, mix together 3/4 teaspoon of salt and the other spices. Rub this spice blend all over the chicken, then place the chicken in the prepared baking dish.
- Spread mayonnaise evenly on top of each chicken breast. Next, sprinkle with panko and Parmesan cheese, then give it a light spray of olive oil.
- Bake the chicken for 25 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- While the chicken is baking, cut the lemon into wedges to serve alongside it.