This Juicy Baked Chicken comes out golden on the outside and perfectly tender inside — no dryness, no guesswork. It’s that reliable dinner you can count on for busy nights, family gatherings, or meal prep days when you want pure comfort in every bite.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Juicy Baked Chicken
Moist, flavorful, and seasoned to perfection — this baked chicken delivers incredible results with almost no effort.
- Golden, seasoned crust with tender, juicy meat
- 6 simple steps — ready in under 35 minutes
- Perfect base for salads, wraps, or family meals
- Works with any seasoning mix or marinade
Craving creamy comfort next? Try our Creamy Garlic Chicken for an easy stovetop favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keep it simple — everyday ingredients that guarantee flavor and moisture.- Chicken breasts — 4 (boneless, skinless)
- Olive oil — 2 tbsp
- Butter — 1 tbsp, melted
- Paprika — 1 tsp
- Garlic powder — 1 tsp
- Onion powder — ½ tsp
- Italian seasoning — ½ tsp
- Salt — ¾ tsp
- Black pepper — ½ tsp
- Fresh parsley — for garnish
Step-by-Step Instruction
Follow these 6 foolproof steps for consistently juicy, golden baked chicken every single time.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). The higher heat seals in moisture and gives the chicken a golden finish.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicke
Pat chicken dry with paper towels to help it brown. Trim any excess fat.
Step 3: Mix the Seasoning
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, melted butter, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth and fragrant.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Rub the mixture evenly over each chicken breast, coating all sides.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place chicken in a baking dish and bake 20–22 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). For thicker breasts, add a few minutes.
Step 6: Rest Before Serving
Remove from oven and let rest 5–7 minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute — the secret to truly juicy chicken.
Pro Tips for Succes
- Use an instant-read thermometer: You’ll never overcook again.
- Let it rest: Essential for keeping moisture inside.
- Add butter at the end: It melts over the top, creating a glossy, flavorful finish.
- Slice against the grain: It keeps the texture tender and smooth.
Serving Ideas
Pair your Juicy Baked Chicken with garlic mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad.
For an easy weekday dinner rotation, try our Easy One-Pan Chicken Recipe for minimal cleanup.
Storage & Make-Ahea
Cool completely before storing:
- Refrigerate: up to 4 days in an airtight container.
- Freeze: up to 3 months.
- Reheat: gently in the oven at 325°F to maintain tenderness.
Variations You Can Try
- Lemon Herb: Add lemon zest and fresh thyme to the rub.
- Smoky BBQ: Swap paprika for smoked paprika and add a drizzle of barbecue sauce.
- Honey Garlic: Add 1 tbsp honey for a sweet, sticky glaze.
Love experimenting? Explore our Baked Chicken Recipes for more easy dinner inspiration.
Juicy Baked Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) to lock in moisture and color.
- Pat chicken breasts dry and trim any excess fat for even cooking.
- Combine olive oil, butter, and all seasonings in a small bowl until blended.
- Rub seasoning mixture evenly over each chicken breast.
- Bake uncovered for 20–22 minutes until internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from oven, rest 5–7 minutes, then serve warm.
Nutrition
Notes
Did you make this recipe? Share a photo and tag us — Follow us at @chopped-beef_official for more
Share a photo and tag us — Follow us at @chopped-beef_official for moreFrequently Asked Questions
What temperature keeps chicken juicy?
425°F (220°C) is ideal for a crispy outside and moist inside.
Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes! They bake beautifully at the same temperature but need about 25–28 minutes.
Do I need to cover the chicken while baking?
No — uncovered baking helps the top caramelize and keeps flavor concentrated.
How do I know when chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer. 165°F (74°C) is your target for juicy perfection.
Conclusion
This Juicy Baked Chicken is proof that simple can be spectacular. With just a few ingredients and 6 easy steps, you get tender, flavorful chicken every single time.
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