Perfect 20-Minute Oven-Baked Chicken Breasts
Delicious and juicy oven-baked chicken breasts that are cooked to perfection in just 20 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, 4 extra-large breasts or 6 average
- 3 to 4 tablespoons olive oil
- kosher salt, to taste
- freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup light brown sugar, packed
- 2 to 3 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 to 2 teaspoons paprika or smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional and to taste
- 1 to 2 teaspoons finely minced fresh herbs, optional for garnishing (parsley, cilantro, basil)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425F (use convection if available) and line a baking sheet with foil for easier cleanup.
- Place the chicken on the baking sheet, and pound to an even thickness.
- Evenly drizzle the chicken with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- In a bowl, combine the remaining ingredients (except fresh herbs) and evenly spoon the dry rub over the chicken on both sides.
- Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (165F). Allow chicken to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing.
- Optionally garnish with fresh herbs before serving. Store airtight in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 4 months.
Notes
- Using foil will help with cleanup.
- Pound chicken to a uniform thickness for even cooking.
- Resting the chicken locks in juices and moisture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 110mg