When you need a reliable dinner that’s simple, flavorful, and doesn’t require a long list of ingredients, this 5-ingredient baked chicken breast is the perfect solution. It’s tender, juicy, and seasoned just enough to let the natural flavor of the chicken shine.
This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or anyone who wants a healthy homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With just five main ingredients and minimal prep, it’s a stress-free dinner you can make again and again.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or preparing meals ahead for the week, baked chicken breast is a versatile staple that pairs well with vegetables, salads, or grains. At Top Recipes Day, we love recipes that are practical, dependable, and made for real life—and this one fits perfectly.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 2 servings
- Cuisine: American
- Category: Dinner Recipes
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
(Salt and pepper not counted toward the 5 main ingredients)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
- Place chicken in a baking dish.
- Drizzle olive oil evenly over the chicken.
- Sprinkle garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper on both sides.
- Bake uncovered for 18–22 minutes.
- Check that internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from oven and rest for 5 minutes.
- Slice and serve warm.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Uses only 5 ingredients
- Juicy and tender every time
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- Perfect for meal prep
- Easy to customize with spices
- Beginner-friendly
Pro Cooking Tips
- Pound chicken to even thickness for even cooking
- Let chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy
- Use a meat thermometer for perfect results
- Don’t overbake—this dries out chicken
- Add herbs after baking for extra flavor
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
- Spicy: Add chili powder or cayenne
- Herb-flavored: Use Italian seasoning
- Low-fat: Reduce oil slightly
- Extra juicy: Cover loosely with foil for first 10 minutes
- Lemon: Add lemon slices before baking
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips
- Refrigerator: Store for up to 4 days
- Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months
- Reheating: Warm gently in oven or microwave with a splash of water
- Great for salads, wraps, and bowls
Nutrition Information (Approximate)
Per serving:
- Calories: 230 kcal
- Protein: 34 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fat: 9 g
Values may vary based on portion size.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I keep baked chicken breast juicy?
Avoid overcooking and let it rest before slicing.
2. Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Yes, but cooking time will increase slightly.
3. Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Absolutely. It stores and reheats very well.
4. Can I marinate the chicken first?
Yes, but it’s flavorful even without marinating.
5. What sides go best with baked chicken?
Roasted vegetables, rice, salad, or mashed potatoes.
Final Thoughts
This 5-Ingredient Baked Chicken Breast is proof that a delicious dinner doesn’t need to be complicated. Simple ingredients, easy steps, and reliable results make it a recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat.
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If you try this recipe, leave a comment and share how you served it. Be sure to explore more easy dinner ideas on Top Recipes Day.
