Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat Oven
- Preheat to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment or foil for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Chicken Fillets
- Slice each chicken breast horizontally to make two thinner fillets (for a total of 4).
- Pat dry with paper towelsâthis helps with browning and flavor absorption.
- Season the Chicken
- Drizzle fillets with olive oil.
- In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and thyme.
- Rub seasoning mix evenly onto both sides of each fillet.
- Bake
- Place chicken fillets on the baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for 15â18 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Optional: Broil for the last 2â3 minutes for a golden finish.
- Rest & Serve
- Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Serve whole or slice thinly against the grain.
- Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
đ§ Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze cooked and cooled fillets for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Microwave for 1â2 minutes or reheat in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through.
đĽ Variations
Spicy Cajun Style: Add ½ tsp cayenne or Cajun seasoning to the mix.
Honey Mustard Glaze: Mix olive oil with 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard and 1 tsp honey before baking.
Herb Crusted: Coat chicken in fresh chopped rosemary, thyme, and garlic for an herby twist.
Asian-Inspired: Use sesame oil and a sprinkle of soy sauce, ginger powder, and garlic.
Pesto Baked: Spread 1 tsp of pesto on each fillet before baking for added flavor.
â 10 FAQs
How do I keep chicken breasts from drying out in the oven?
Slice them thinly, coat in oil, use a hot oven (425°F), and donât overbake. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but thaw completely before baking for even cooking. Should I marinate first?
You donât need to, but a 15-minute marinade with olive oil and lemon juice wonât hurt. Can I pan-fry instead?
Yes! Sear 4â5 minutes per side over medium-high heat until cooked through. How do I know when it's done?
Use a meat thermometerâinternal temp should be 165°F (74°C). What sides pair well with this?
Try roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, quinoa, salad, or rice pilaf. Can I make it ahead for meal prep?
Absolutelyâstore in meal containers with grains and veggies for the week. How do I slice it for sandwiches?
Let it rest, then slice thinly against the grain for tender pieces. Can I bake it covered?
You can, but baking uncovered helps get a golden, slightly crisp top. Is this good for kids?
Yes! Itâs mild, juicy, and can be sliced into strips for dipping. đ Conclusion This Easy Baked Chicken Breast Fillet is your weeknight savior: quick, versatile, and reliably juicy every time. With a simple spice blend and the right cooking method, this dish turns out perfect whether you're meal-prepping or making dinner in a pinch. Itâs proof that healthy, homemade food doesnât have to be complicatedâjust season, bake, and enjoy tender chicken with almost zero effort.
Slice them thinly, coat in oil, use a hot oven (425°F), and donât overbake. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but thaw completely before baking for even cooking. Should I marinate first?
You donât need to, but a 15-minute marinade with olive oil and lemon juice wonât hurt. Can I pan-fry instead?
Yes! Sear 4â5 minutes per side over medium-high heat until cooked through. How do I know when it's done?
Use a meat thermometerâinternal temp should be 165°F (74°C). What sides pair well with this?
Try roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, quinoa, salad, or rice pilaf. Can I make it ahead for meal prep?
Absolutelyâstore in meal containers with grains and veggies for the week. How do I slice it for sandwiches?
Let it rest, then slice thinly against the grain for tender pieces. Can I bake it covered?
You can, but baking uncovered helps get a golden, slightly crisp top. Is this good for kids?
Yes! Itâs mild, juicy, and can be sliced into strips for dipping. đ Conclusion This Easy Baked Chicken Breast Fillet is your weeknight savior: quick, versatile, and reliably juicy every time. With a simple spice blend and the right cooking method, this dish turns out perfect whether you're meal-prepping or making dinner in a pinch. Itâs proof that healthy, homemade food doesnât have to be complicatedâjust season, bake, and enjoy tender chicken with almost zero effort.