Name: Juicy Easy Baked Chicken Recipe Ready in Just 30 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-488751H40M57S
Total time: PT-488751H40M57S
Cuisine: American / Everyday
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (~6 oz each); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika

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This juicy, easy baked chicken recipe is my ultimate weeknight lifesaver. With just a few pantry staples and minimal prep, I can whip up perfectly seasoned, tender chicken breasts that taste like I spent hours in the kitchen. Whether it’s a hectic Monday or I’m just not in the mood for complicated cooking, this recipe always delivers juicy results and big flavor with practically no fuss.

Juicy Easy Baked Chicken Recipe Ready in Just 30 Minutes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s ridiculously easy to pull off, even on my most chaotic days. Here’s what makes it a staple in my kitchen:

It takes just 10 minutes of prep—perfect when I need something fast.
I only need a few pantry staples—nothing fancy or hard to find.
The olive oil locks in moisture so every bite is juicy and never dry.
I can customize it however I want—lemon zest, cayenne, fresh herbs, anything goes.
It’s family-approved, including the picky eaters!

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika

Directions

1. Prep the Chicken:
I start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels so the seasoning sticks. Then I drizzle them with olive oil and rub it all over.

2. Season:
I mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, then sprinkle it evenly on all sides of the chicken.

3. Bake:
I place the chicken on a baking sheet, making sure there’s a bit of space between each piece. Then I bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes, until the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C).

4. Rest:
Once out of the oven, I let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing or serving. This locks in all those amazing juices.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Spicy twist: I add cayenne pepper or red chili flakes for heat.
Herb-infused: Sometimes I sprinkle Italian seasoning or fresh rosemary for an herby boost.
Lemon garlic version: I zest a lemon and mix it with the seasoning for a bright flavor.
Use thighs instead: When I want something extra juicy, I switch to chicken thighs and bake for about 35–40 minutes.

Storage/Reheating

When I have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To reheat without drying it out, I warm the chicken in a 350°F oven for about 10–15 minutes, covered with foil.
If I’m in a hurry, I microwave it at 50% power in short bursts, adding a splash of water to keep the moisture in.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! I love using thighs when I want extra-rich flavor. They’re naturally juicier and need a little more bake time—around 35–40 minutes at the same temperature.

How do I keep the chicken from drying out?

I always rely on a meat thermometer. I pull the chicken out of the oven right at 165°F and let it rest. The olive oil also helps seal in moisture.

Can I prep this ahead of time?

Definitely. I often season the chicken the night before and store it in the fridge. The flavors deepen, and I just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time since it starts cold.

What sides go best with this chicken?

This baked chicken pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, fresh salad, or even tossed into a sandwich the next day. It’s a great base for just about any meal.

Can I freeze baked chicken?

Yes, I do it often! Once fully cooled, I wrap each piece in foil and freeze them in a zip-top bag. To reheat, I thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven until heated through.

Conclusion

This easy baked chicken recipe has truly become my kitchen superhero. Whether I’m feeding a hungry family or need something simple for lunch prep, I know I can count on it to be flavorful, juicy, and stress-free. It’s proof that simple ingredients and smart cooking can go a long way—without a ton of effort. Once I made this a few times, I never looked back!