This recipe for simple baked chicken breasts is all about making a juicy, tender meal with minimal effort. Just salt, pepper, and a little oil transform plain chicken into a delicious dinner in just 30 minutes. A perfect dish for busy nights when you want something healthy and easy.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon pepper

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts

• ¼ cup water or broth

• 1 lemon (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking dish with olive oil. Use the smallest oven-safe dish to help retain the chicken’s juices.

2. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to help the seasoning stick.

3. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place them in the prepared baking dish, drizzle with olive oil, and pour the water or broth into the dish.

4. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). At the 20-minute mark, baste the chicken with the juices in the dish to keep it moist.

5. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top (optional).

6. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!

Nutrients (per serving)

• Calories: 176 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 0.2g

• Protein: 24g

• Fat: 8g

• Saturated Fat: 1g

• Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g

• Monounsaturated Fat: 5g

• Trans Fat: 0.01g

• Cholesterol: 73mg

• Sodium: 714mg

• Potassium: 423mg

• Fiber: 0.1g

• Sugar: 0.003g

• Vitamin A: 35 IU

• Vitamin C: 1mg

• Calcium: 8mg

• Iron: 0.5mg

Baking chicken breasts is a classic cooking method that helps retain moisture, creating a flavorful and satisfying meal. The key to achieving a perfectly baked chicken breast is seasoning it simply—salt, pepper, and olive oil are all it takes to elevate the natural flavors of the chicken. Plus, with the optional addition of fresh lemon juice, this dish takes on a refreshing citrus twist that makes it all the more delightful.

Why Baked Chicken Breasts Are Perfect for Busy Nights

One of the most appealing aspects of this simple baked chicken breasts recipe is how little effort is required to prepare a delicious and nutritious dinner. When you’re pressed for time, the last thing you want is a complicated recipe that requires multiple ingredients and steps. This recipe streamlines the process while still delivering a meal that’s tender, juicy, and full of flavor.

Baking the chicken breasts allows for a hands-off approach once they are in the oven. All you need to do is season the chicken, place it in the oven, and set a timer. This means you can focus on other tasks, like preparing sides, setting the table, or even unwinding after a busy day.

Additionally, this recipe is easily adaptable to different dietary preferences. Whether you’re looking to stick to a low-carb, high-protein, or gluten-free diet, this dish fits the bill. It’s a great choice for health-conscious individuals or families seeking to maintain a balanced diet without sacrificing flavor.

The Secret to Juicy Chicken Breasts

One of the challenges people often face when baking chicken breasts is the risk of them becoming dry or tough. However, this recipe ensures that your chicken breasts come out juicy and tender every time. Here are a few key tips that make a difference:

1. Dry the Chicken: Before seasoning, pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This simple step removes any excess moisture, which helps the seasonings adhere to the meat and also promotes even cooking.

2. Baste Midway Through Cooking: At the 20-minute mark, baste the chicken with the juices in the baking dish. This step helps keep the chicken moist and adds a burst of flavor. The juices from the chicken and broth will infuse the meat, making each bite juicy and tender.

3. Use a Baking Dish That Fits: When baking chicken breasts, it’s important to choose the right size baking dish. Using a smaller, oven-safe dish ensures that the chicken is snug, which helps retain its natural juices. The limited space in the dish traps steam, preventing the chicken from drying out.

4. Check the Internal Temperature: To guarantee that the chicken is cooked through without overcooking, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The USDA recommends that chicken be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety. This ensures that the chicken is fully cooked while remaining moist and flavorful.

The Importance of Simple Seasoning

Sometimes, the simplest seasoning is the best. In this recipe, salt, pepper, and olive oil are the only ingredients used to season the chicken breasts, allowing the natural flavors of the meat to shine through. The olive oil helps lock in moisture and promotes a golden, slightly crispy exterior, while the salt and pepper enhance the savory flavors of the chicken without overpowering them.

While the seasoning in this recipe is minimalist, you can always get creative and add extra spices or herbs if desired. If you prefer a more Mediterranean flavor profile, try adding garlic powder, rosemary, or thyme. For a touch of spice, paprika, cayenne pepper, or chili flakes can bring some heat to the dish. However, even with just the basic seasoning, this baked chicken is perfectly flavorful on its own.

Why Olive Oil Is the Ideal Cooking Fat

Olive oil is the key fat used in this recipe, and for good reason. It’s a heart-healthy fat that enhances the flavor of the chicken while keeping it moist. The rich, fruity taste of olive oil adds a subtle depth of flavor that complements the chicken, making each bite more satisfying.

Olive oil is also an excellent choice because it has a high smoke point, making it ideal for roasting in the oven. Unlike butter, which can burn at high temperatures, olive oil maintains its integrity even when exposed to heat, ensuring that the chicken cooks evenly without any burnt flavors.

For those who prefer a different flavor, avocado oil is another excellent choice. It also has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it suitable for various cooking applications.

Optional Lemon Twist

While the recipe is delicious as-is, an optional squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top of the chicken adds a refreshing, tangy contrast to the savory flavor of the meat. The acidity from the lemon brightens the dish and provides a perfect balance to the richness of the olive oil. Lemon also works well with the natural flavor of the chicken, enhancing the overall dish without overpowering it.

For those who love citrus, lemon zest can also be used as a garnish for an extra burst of citrusy freshness. This small addition can elevate the dish and add an extra layer of complexity to the flavors.

Pairing Simple Baked Chicken Breasts

Simple baked chicken breasts are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a wide variety of side dishes to create a complete meal. Here are a few ideas to complement your chicken:

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes are a perfect complement to the savory chicken. The sweetness of roasted vegetables balances the saltiness of the chicken and adds color and texture to your plate.

• Steamed Greens: A side of steamed spinach, broccoli, or green beans provides a light and healthy contrast to the rich chicken. Toss the greens with a bit of olive oil, lemon, and garlic for added flavor.

• Rice or Quinoa: For a heartier side, serve the chicken with a side of brown rice or quinoa. Both options are high in fiber and make a satisfying accompaniment to the chicken.

• Mashed Potatoes: If you’re craving comfort food, mashed potatoes are always a great pairing. Their creamy texture complements the juicy chicken and creates a filling, well-rounded meal.

Meal Prep and Leftovers

Another advantage of this simple baked chicken breasts recipe is that it’s perfect for meal prep. Chicken breasts can be made in advance, stored in the fridge, and enjoyed throughout the week. They can be reheated easily in the microwave or on the stovetop, retaining their moisture and flavor.

Leftover chicken can also be used in a variety of dishes. Chop it up and add it to salads, toss it in wraps, or mix it into pasta for a quick and easy meal the next day.

Conclusion

Simple baked chicken breasts are an ideal solution for busy nights when you want a healthy, satisfying, and easy-to-make meal. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a delicious dish that’s tender, juicy, and full of flavor. Whether you enjoy it as a standalone dish or pair it with your favorite sides, this recipe is versatile, nutritious, and guaranteed to be a hit with everyone at the table. With its straightforward approach and satisfying results, it’s a recipe worth adding to your regular rotation.