A simple, juicy oven-baked chicken breast can transform a weeknight meal into something delicious with minimal effort. This recipe delivers a tender and flavorful result every time.
Why Make This Recipe
- The combination of brown sugar and paprika creates a sweet, smoky crust that locks in the juices, keeping the chicken incredibly tender.
- With just five minutes of preparation and under 20 minutes of baking, The ingredients are pantry staples, and the process is simple, making it accessible for all skill levels.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken:
- 4 chicken breasts (150-180g / 5-6 oz each)
Seasoning:
- 1½ tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano or thyme
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp each salt and black pepper
Other:
- 2 tsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley (optional garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Quick Overview
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Pound chicken to even thickness.
- Season and bake.
Detailed Steps
- Preheat the Oven
- Set the oven to 425°F (220°C) or 200°C for fan ovens.
- Pound the Chicken
- Place the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap and pound them to 1.5 cm (0.6 inches) at the thickest part using a rolling pin or meat mallet. This ensures even cooking.
- Season the Chicken
- In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, paprika, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Prepare for Baking
- Line a baking tray with foil and parchment paper. Place the chicken breasts on the tray, smooth side down.
- Drizzle 1 tsp olive oil over the chicken and rub it in. Sprinkle half the seasoning mix over the chicken.
- Flip the chicken and repeat the process with the remaining olive oil and seasoning.
- Bake
- Bake for 18 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The surface should be golden and caramelized.
- Rest and Serve
- Remove from the oven and immediately transfer the chicken to serving plates. Let it rest for 3-5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Serving Ideas
- Main Dish: Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or garlic butter rice.
- Salad Topping: Slice and add to Caesar salad, garden salad, or grain bowls.
- Pasta or Rice: Mix sliced chicken into creamy pasta dishes or stir-fries.
- Sandwiches: Use leftovers for chicken sandwiches or wraps the next day.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in zip-top bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or until warmed. Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the chicken.
Pro Tips
- Even Thickness: Pounding the chicken ensures even cooking, preventing dryness.
- Don’t Overcook: Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
- Resting Time: Letting the chicken rest after baking allows juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender.
Customizations
- Spicy Option: Add ½ tsp cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Ensure all spices are certified gluten-free if necessary.
- Lower Sodium: Reduce salt to ¼ tsp or use a salt substitute.