Name: Oven Baked Chicken Breast
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 0.25 cup Brown Sugar; 3 tablespoons Smoked Paprika; 1 tablespoon Chili Powder; 1 tablespoon Garlic Powder; 1 tablespoon Onion Powder; 1 tablespoon Dried Thyme; 1 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (optional) (For heat); 0.5 teaspoon Kosher Salt; 0.5 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper; 4 pieces Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts; 0.25 cup Butter ((1 tablespoon per chicken breast))

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Tender, juicy, and bursting with smoky-sweet flavor, this Oven Baked Chicken Breast recipe is everything you want in a simple, fuss-free dinner. It’s seasoned with a bold, aromatic dry rub that caramelizes beautifully in the oven, creating a golden crust around the moist, flavorful meat. No brining, no complicated prep—just perfectly seasoned chicken that’s always a hit.

The first time I made this for a weeknight dinner, it became an instant favorite. It’s one of those reliable, go-to meals that checks all the boxes: quick, flavorful, and meal prep-friendly. If you love our Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs or Baked Ranch Chicken, this recipe brings that same savory satisfaction with a smoky kick and zero mess. Ready to meet your new favorite chicken recipe?

What is Oven Baked Chicken Breast?

Oven Baked Chicken Breast is a foolproof, no-brine-needed method for baking boneless, skinless chicken breasts that stay juicy and full of flavor. What sets this version apart is the irresistible spice rub—made from pantry staples like smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, and chili powder—that infuses the meat with sweet, savory, and slightly spicy notes. It’s simple, clean, and seriously delicious.

And you know what they say, “The way to a perfect dinner is with one great chicken recipe.” This one delivers every time.

Why You’ll Love This:

There are a lot of baked chicken recipes out there, but this one truly stands out—and here’s why:

Incredibly juicy and flavorful: The spice rub caramelizes in the oven, locking in moisture and adding depth.
No brining, no fuss: Skip the mess of a wet brine—this dry rub does all the heavy lifting.
Meal-prep friendly: Make it ahead, store it, and use it for salads, wraps, and bowls throughout the week.

If you’ve tried our Oven Roasted Chicken Thighs or Easy Lemon Garlic Chicken, this smoky-sweet version is a bold, versatile twist you’ll want to make again and again.

How to Make Oven Baked Chicken Breast

Quick Overview

The chicken is coated in a flavorful dry rub, marinated briefly (or overnight!), and baked to juicy perfection in under 30 minutes. A pat of butter on each breast melts during baking for an extra boost of flavor and moisture.

Ingredients:

¼ cup brown sugar
3 tablespoons smoked paprika
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
½ teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
¼ cup butter (1 tablespoon per chicken breast)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Make the Dry Rub:

In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper.

2. Season the Chicken:

Place the chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or bowl.
Pour the dry rub mixture over the chicken.
Seal the bag and shake or massage until the chicken is evenly coated.
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor.

3. Preheat and Prep:

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup and arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer.
Place 1 tablespoon of butter on top of each breast.

4. Bake the Chicken:

Bake for 20–30 minutes, depending on thickness. Use an instant-read thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F.

5. Rest and Serve:

Remove from oven and tent loosely with foil.
Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes to seal in the juices before slicing.
Serve hot, or cool completely, wrap tightly, and refrigerate for up to 36 hours.

What to Serve Oven Baked Chicken Breast With

This chicken pairs beautifully with almost anything. Try these combos for a complete meal:

Roasted veggies or garlic green beans
Mashed or baked sweet potatoes
Wild rice, couscous, or quinoa bowls
Crisp garden salad or Caesar salad
Drizzle with BBQ sauce or ranch for added flavor

It’s also great sliced over pasta, stuffed into sandwiches, or chopped into wraps.

Top Tips for Perfecting This Recipe

Use a meat thermometer: It’s the best way to ensure juicy, fully cooked chicken every time.
Pound chicken to even thickness: This helps all breasts cook evenly and prevents dryness.
Let it rest: This step is crucial—resting allows juices to redistribute for tender, juicy meat.
Adjust the spice: For a milder flavor, reduce or omit the cayenne. For a smokier kick, add more smoked paprika.
Double the rub: Save the extra in a jar for next time—it’s great on pork, tofu, or veggies too!

Storing and Reheating Tips

Refrigerate: Store cooled chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm in a 325°F oven, covered, for 10–15 minutes or until heated through. Or microwave gently with a splash of broth for moisture.
Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken breasts or thighs?
Yes! Just increase the bake time slightly and check the internal temp (165°F for breasts, 175°F for thighs).

What’s the best way to keep baked chicken moist?
High heat, a flavorful rub, butter, and proper resting time are key to locking in moisture.

Can I make this ahead for meal prep?
Absolutely. Cook and store for use in salads, wraps, bowls, or sandwiches all week long.

Is this recipe spicy?
It has a gentle kick from the cayenne, but you can easily omit it for a milder version.

Conclusion

This Oven Baked Chicken Breast recipe is the answer to dry, bland baked chicken. With bold flavor from a sweet-and-smoky spice rub and a juicy, tender texture every time, it’s a kitchen staple you’ll turn to again and again. Whether you serve it fresh out of the oven or chilled for meal prep, this chicken is simple, satisfying, and oh-so-delicious.