Succulent, juicy, and outrageously simple, this Chicken Breast recipe is a staple in my kitchen — and I promise, after one bite, it’ll become one in yours too. Whether you’re baking, grilling, or searing, you’ll wind up with gorgeously golden chicken that’s never dry, always flavorful, and straight-up versatile. The powerhouse combo of olive oil, garlic, paprika, and herbs proves that you don’t need a laundry list of ingredients to make a memorable dinner. I love how this Chicken Breast shines on its own, but it’s also just the beginning for salads, pastas, sandwiches, or your favorite sides.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s talk about how these humble but essential ingredients work their magic. Each one brings its own flavor, aroma, or texture to the table, turning basic Chicken Breast into something truly crave-worthy. Keep things simple, but don’t skimp on the details — quality ingredients make all the difference.
- Chicken breasts: Go for boneless, skinless Chicken Breast for the quickest cook time and the juiciest results every single time.
- Olive oil: Adds deep flavor while helping your seasonings stick and the Chicken Breast stay moist.
- Garlic powder: A sprinkle of savory intensity that brings out the best in the chicken.
- Paprika: Gives lovely color and just a touch of smoky-sweet complexity.
- Dried thyme or Italian seasoning: Earthy herbs that infuse every bite with subtle, irresistible fragrance.
- Salt: Essential for flavor and keeping your Chicken Breast perfectly seasoned.
- Black pepper: A gentle kick of heat to round everything out.
- Lemon wedges and fresh herbs (optional): The perfect finishing touch for brightness and freshness at serving time.
How to Make Chicken Breast
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
This first step is all about setting your Chicken Breast up for juicy success. Lay out your chicken on a cutting board and pat both sides dry with paper towels — moisture on the surface leads to steam, and we want that gorgeous golden color! If you have a few extra seconds, gently pound the breasts to an even thickness with a meat mallet or rolling pin. This helps them cook evenly, so you don’t end up with dry edges or underdone centers.
Step 2: Mix the Seasoning
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, thyme (or Italian seasoning), salt, and black pepper. Stir it all together until it forms a beautifully fragrant, ruddy-hued blend. This mixture isn’t just about flavor — the olive oil helps the spices stick and creates the juiciest Chicken Breast imaginable.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken Breast
Rub that gorgeous seasoning mix evenly over both sides of each Chicken Breast, making sure every inch is coated. This is your chance to really massage in all that flavor, so don’t be shy! It may look like a lot of seasoning, but trust me, your taste buds will thank you later.
Step 4: Bake, Grill, or Sear
Decide if you’re in a baking mood or ready to fire up the skillet or grill. To bake, place the seasoned chicken in a lightly greased baking dish and pop it in a hot 425°F oven for 18 to 22 minutes. You’re after a golden surface and an internal temp of 165°F — use a thermometer for foolproof results. For grilling or pan-searing, cook over medium-high heat for 6 to 7 minutes per side. Regardless of your method, resist the urge to poke and prod! Let the chicken develop a deep, flavorful crust.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
When your Chicken Breast is done, transfer it to a plate and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. That little pause locks in the juices, so every bite is tender and flavorful. Just before serving, add a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of fresh herbs if you want to dress it up.
How to Serve Chicken Breast
Garnishes
There’s nothing quite like the bright zing of a lemon wedge and the herbaceous pop of fresh parsley or thyme to take your Chicken Breast from simple to special. A light sprinkle just before serving transforms both the look and flavor, and your family will think you spent hours in the kitchen.
Side Dishes
This Chicken Breast is a chameleon — it pairs beautifully with everything from roasted vegetables and creamy mashed potatoes to vibrant salads and fluffy rice. If you’re after something light, serve it atop a bed of greens. For a cozier vibe, nestle it beside garlicky sautéed spinach or buttery noodles.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice your Chicken Breast thinly and fan it over a fresh pasta salad, or pile it into a crusty sandwich with crisp lettuce and ripe tomato. Dice and toss into grain bowls with your favorite veggies, or even top a homemade pizza for a protein-packed twist!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, stash any leftover Chicken Breast in an airtight container and tuck it away in the fridge. It’ll stay moist and delicious for up to 3 days, perfect for salads, wraps, and speedy lunchboxes.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze cooked Chicken Breast in freezer-safe bags or containers. I like to wrap individual breasts to make thawing a breeze. Try to eat it within 2 months for the best flavor — just remember to label the date!
Reheating
To reheat gently, place sliced or whole Chicken Breast on a plate, cover loosely, and microwave in short bursts until just warmed through. Or, pop it into a 300°F oven, covered with foil, for about 10 minutes. A quick drizzle of broth or water helps maintain that coveted juiciness.
FAQs
How do I keep Chicken Breast from drying out?
Pounding the Chicken Breast to even thickness and letting it rest after cooking are key tricks for juiciness. Don’t overcook — use a thermometer and as soon as it hits 165°F, you’re golden!
Can I use different seasonings?
Absolutely! This Chicken Breast recipe is a fantastic canvas for your favorite flavors: chili powder for heat, cumin for smokiness, or dried basil and oregano for Italian flair. Just keep the same proportions.
Is this Chicken Breast recipe good for meal prep?
It’s one of my go-to meal prep options! Cook once, then enjoy tasty, ready-to-eat protein in salads, sandwiches, bowls, or wraps all week long.
Can I cook Chicken Breast from frozen?
For best results, thaw the Chicken Breast overnight in the fridge. If you’re in a hurry, bake directly from frozen at 350°F, adding extra time and using a thermometer to check doneness.
What’s the best way to slice Chicken Breast?
Always slice Chicken Breast against the grain after it’s rested. This gives you the most tender, juicy pieces — perfect for salads, sandwiches, or serving straight up!
Final Thoughts
There’s something special about a perfectly cooked Chicken Breast: simple, nourishing, and endlessly versatile. Give this recipe a try and unleash your creativity — I can’t wait for you to experience just how tasty and easy homemade Chicken Breast can be!
Print
Chicken Breast Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Learn how to make delicious and juicy chicken breasts with this easy recipe. Perfect for a quick and healthy meal!
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- lemon wedges and fresh herbs for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) or heat a grill pan/skillet over medium-high heat. Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
- To Bake: Place chicken in a lightly greased baking dish and bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- To Grill or Pan-Sear: Cook chicken for 6–7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through. Let rest before slicing and serving. Garnish with lemon wedges or herbs if desired.
Notes
- For extra juiciness, pound chicken to even thickness before cooking.
- This basic recipe works great for meal prep, salads, sandwiches, or pasta dishes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking or Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 380 mg
- Fat: 11 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 39 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg
