Want delicious, tender chicken breasts with just five simple ingredients? It’s easy! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s quick, satisfying, and the whole family will love it.

Key Takeaways

  • This recipe uses only 5 ingredients or fewer for a simple, straightforward preparation.
  • The baked chicken breasts can be ready in as little as 30 minutes, making it a great choice for a fast weeknight dinner.
  • The recipe focuses on accessible, budget-friendly ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen.
  • Techniques like pounding the chicken to even thickness and seasoning before cooking help ensure tender, flavorful results.
  • The dish is versatile and can be customized with different herb and spice combinations to suit your preferences.

What Makes This Recipe Special

This 5-ingredient baked chicken breast recipe is quick and easy. It’s ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights. It’s also budget-friendly, using common ingredients and affordable chicken breasts.

This recipe is great for meal planning. You can store and reheat the chicken for future meals. It’s versatile, allowing you to add different seasonings and sides to keep things interesting.

Time-Saving Benefits

  • Ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish
  • Hands-on preparation time is minimal
  • No complicated techniques or lengthy marinating required

Budget-Friendly Aspects

  • Uses affordable, common pantry ingredients
  • Chicken breasts are a cost-effective protein
  • Allows you to stretch your grocery budget

Perfect for Meal Prep

  • Cooked chicken can be easily stored and reheated
  • Ideal for preparing ahead of time for busy weeks
  • Ensures you have a delicious, protein-packed meal ready to go
Recipe Calories Fat Cholesterol Sodium Carbs Protein
Baked Orange Chicken 189 3g 63mg 224mg 17g 23g
Baked Salsa Chicken 226 7g 92mg 628mg 3g 34g
Kentucky Grilled Chicken 284 11g 113mg 406mg 0g 41g
Grilled Caesar Chicken Breasts 318 18g 100mg 395mg 0g 35g
Grilled Teriyaki Chicken 203 4g 94mg 417mg 0g 35g
Chicken & Vegetable Curry Couscous 273 4g 47mg 311mg 0g 0g

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Baked Chicken

Creating delicious baked chicken breasts starts with top-notch ingredients. At the center are boneless, skinless chicken breasts, the main attraction. To add moisture, you’ll need olive oil or butter, salt, and pepper. The secret ingredient is the chicken breast seasoning you pick.

Seasoning options range from garlic powder to lemon juice. You can stick with a basic mix of herbs and spices or try a marinade for more flavor. The goal is to enhance the chicken’s taste without overwhelming it.

  • Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Olive oil or melted butter
  • Salt and black pepper
  • Garlic powder, dried thyme, or other dried herbs
  • Lemon juice or zest (optional)
  • Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Breadcrumbs (optional)

With the right mix of chicken breast seasoning, baking ingredients, and technique, you can make ordinary chicken breasts into a tasty meal. Don’t be afraid to try different flavors and find the perfect seasoning for you.

“The quality of the chicken and the balance of seasonings are crucial for achieving the best flavor and texture.”

5-Ingredient Baked Chicken Breasts

Craving a healthy and delicious dinner? Our 5-Ingredient Baked Chicken Breasts recipe is perfect. It’s simple, flavorful, and great for busy nights or meal prep.

Ingredient List

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon of your chosen seasoning (e.g., garlic powder, rosemary, or paprika)

Nutritional Information

This recipe is a healthy, balanced meal. Each serving (1 chicken breast) has about 226 calories. It also has 7g of fat, 3g of saturated fat, and 92mg of cholesterol. You’ll get 628mg of sodium, 3g of carbs, and 34g of protein.

Storage Tips

Keep the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Or, freeze it for up to 3 months. This makes it perfect for meal storage and healthy dinner planning.

“This 5-Ingredient Baked Chicken Breasts recipe is a game-changer for busy home cooks. It’s a chicken breast recipe that’s both easy to prepare and incredibly tasty.”

Preparation and Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make the perfect 5-Ingredient Baked Chicken Breasts, you’ll need a few tools. First, a baking dish or sheet pan is essential for cooking the chicken. A meat tenderizer or rolling pin helps pound the chicken breasts evenly. This ensures they cook well.

Measuring spoons are handy for the seasonings. And, a meat thermometer is crucial for checking the chicken’s internal temperature. It should reach a safe 165°F.

Optional tools can make prep easier. Kitchen shears help trim fat or skin, a whisk mixes the marinade, and plastic wrap aids in pounding the chicken. Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) before starting. Also, have all ingredients at room temperature for the best results.

  • Baking dish or sheet pan
  • Meat tenderizer or rolling pin
  • Measuring spoons
  • Meat thermometer
  • Optional: Kitchen shears, whisk, plastic wrap
  • Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C)
  • Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature

“Having the right kitchen tools on hand makes all the difference when it comes to easy meal prep.”

Secret to Perfectly Tender Chicken

To get juicy, tender baked chicken breasts, follow a few easy steps. First, pound the chicken to about 1/2 inch thick. This makes sure the juicy chicken breast cooks evenly, avoiding dry spots.

Keeping an eye on the temperature is key for even cooking. Use a thermometer to check if the chicken is at 165°F (74°C). Baking at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes makes the chicken more tender and juicy than slower cooking at lower temperatures.

Brining the chicken before baking helps keep it moist. And don’t forget to let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes after baking. This lets the juices spread evenly, making the chicken tender and flavorful.

By using these tips, you’ll make perfectly tender, juicy chicken breasts every time. Serve them with your favorite sides for a delicious meal.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to make a tasty and easy baked chicken dish? Follow these simple steps for perfectly cooked how to bake chicken every time.

  1. Preheat your oven to a toasty 425°F (218°C). This high temperature is key for achieving a nice golden-brown crust on your oven-baked chicken.
  2. Prepare your chicken breasts by pounding them to an even thickness, about 1/2 to 3/4 inch. This will ensure they cook evenly and stay juicy.
  3. Season the chicken with a pinch of salt, a sprinkle of black pepper, and any other desired spices or herbs. Feel free to get creative with your favorite chicken cooking time seasoning blends!
  4. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish and brush them lightly with olive oil or melted butter. This will help the skin crisp up beautifully.
  5. Bake the chicken for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches a safe 165°F (74°C). The exact chicken cooking time may vary depending on the size of your chicken breasts.
  6. Once the chicken is cooked through, let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring your oven-baked chicken is moist and flavorful.

With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy tender, juicy, and perfectly how to bake chicken every time. Serve your baked chicken with your favorite sides for a delicious and easy weeknight meal.

Seasoning Variations and Flavor Combinations

Make your baked chicken breasts even better with different seasonings. Try fresh herbs, spice mixes, and simple items from your pantry. This way, you can make a taste that you really like.

Herb Combinations

Give your chicken a boost with herbs. Here are some great choices:

  • Rosemary and thyme
  • Basil and oregano
  • Dill and parsley

Spice Blends

Add some spice to your chicken. These blends are great:

  1. Taco seasoning for a Tex-Mex twist
  2. Italian seasoning for a Mediterranean flair
  3. Garlic and onion powder for a classic savory taste

Other tasty options include lemon pepper, cajun seasoning, or a honey mustard glaze. You can mix and match to find the perfect chicken seasoning ideas and flavor variations for you.

“The beauty of this simple baked chicken recipe is the ability to customize the flavor variations to suit your mood or the occasion.”

Side Dish Pairing Suggestions

Choosing the right side dishes can make your meal complete and satisfying. Baked chicken breasts pair well with a variety of sides. You can go for light, refreshing options or hearty, comforting classics.

For a light and summery feel, try a crisp cucumber salad or a zucchini and tomato medley. These sides offer cool, fresh flavors that balance the chicken’s richness. Roasted Brussels sprouts or garlic-seasoned potatoes are also great, as they cook well with the chicken.

If you want something more filling, mashed potatoes or creamy macaroni and cheese are perfect. Cheesy potato skins or a sweet and spicy coleslaw add a nice contrast to the chicken.

  • Steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables
  • Mashed potatoes or rice
  • Fresh salad or a side of quinoa

The goal is to pick sides that enhance the chicken’s flavors. They should also add variety in texture and nutrition. With so many tasty options, you’ll find the ideal pairing for a complete chicken dinner.

Common Cooking Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking chicken can be fun and rewarding. But, it’s easy to make mistakes that can spoil the dish. As someone who loves cooking chicken, I’ve found that watching the temperature and timing is key. This ensures your chicken breasts are always tender and juicy.

Temperature Issues

Many home cooks cook chicken at the wrong temperature. Don’t try to cook it too fast, as this can make it dry and tough. Instead, keep the oven at 425°F (218°C) for the best results. Always use a meat thermometer to check if the chicken is cooked to 165°F (74°C).

Timing Problems

Another mistake is overcooking the chicken. This can make it lose its juices and tenderness. Check if it’s done a few minutes before the recipe says. Chicken keeps cooking after it’s taken out of the oven, so it’s better to slightly undercook it.

Other important chicken cooking tips include pounding the chicken evenly and seasoning it well with food safety approved spices. Also, don’t cut into the chicken right after cooking. Letting it rest allows the juices to spread, making it juicier and more flavorful.

By avoiding these baking errors and using a few simple techniques, you can make sure your baked chicken breasts are always perfectly cooked.

Storage and Reheating Guidelines

Keeping your leftover chicken fresh and tasty is crucial. Follow these easy steps to keep your meal prep storage at its best.

To store cooked leftover chicken, put it in an airtight container. Refrigerate it for 3-4 days. For longer storage, wrap it in plastic and foil, then freeze in a bag. Frozen leftover chicken stays good for up to 3 months.

When reheating leftover chicken, remember food safety. If it was frozen, thaw it first. Then, heat it in a 350°F oven for 15 minutes or microwave on medium until it’s 165°F.

  • Store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • Freeze chicken by wrapping it tightly in plastic and foil, then placing in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
  • Thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Reheat chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or in the microwave until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

By following these meal prep storage and food safety tips, your leftover chicken will stay fresh and tasty. This makes it easy to enjoy a quick, satisfying meal anytime.

“Proper storage and reheating techniques are key to enjoying delicious leftover chicken.”

Alternative Cooking Methods

Our 5-Ingredient Baked Chicken Breasts recipe is tasty and simple. But, you can try different cooking methods for more variety. You might like the smoky taste of grilled chicken, the crispy feel of pan-seared chicken, or the easy use of air fryer chicken. We’ve got you covered.

Grilled Chicken Breasts

Heat your grill to medium-high, about 450°F. Put the chicken breasts on the grill. Cook for 6-8 minutes on each side, until it’s 165°F inside. This method gives the chicken a nice char and smoky flavor, perfect for summer.

Pan-Seared Chicken Breasts

Warm a big skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly grease the skillet with oil. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, until it’s 165°F inside. This way, the outside gets crispy and golden, while the inside stays juicy.

Air Fryer Chicken Breasts

Set your air fryer to 375°F. Put the chicken breasts in the basket, leaving some space. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until it’s 165°F inside. This method is quick, easy, and makes crispy chicken with little oil.

Choose any cooking method you like. Always let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This makes sure it’s tender and flavorful every time.

Conclusion

This 5-ingredient easy chicken recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners. It’s simple, delicious, and versatile. You can make a healthy dish with just a few ingredients that everyone will love.

This recipe is great because you can change it up in many ways. It’s perfect for meal prep or when you have guests over. It’s a tasty choice that goes well with many sides, making meals balanced and satisfying.

Learning how to make this recipe well is key. Resting the chicken and using parchment paper helps keep it moist. So, try this 5-ingredient recipe and enjoy a quick and versatile meal every time.

FAQ

What makes this 5-ingredient baked chicken breast recipe special?

This recipe is simple and delicious, using just five ingredients. It’s great for busy weeknights because it’s quick and satisfying. The chicken turns out tender and juicy, full of flavor.

It’s also versatile and can be paired with many side dishes. This makes it a complete meal.

What are the key benefits of this recipe?

This recipe is easy and fast, taking only 30 minutes to make. It’s also budget-friendly, using common ingredients and affordable chicken. It’s perfect for meal prep, as the chicken can be stored and reheated later.

Plus, you can customize it with different seasonings and sides. This makes it easy to change up the flavor.

What are the essential ingredients for this recipe?

You’ll need boneless, skinless chicken breasts, olive oil or butter, salt, pepper, and your choice of seasoning. You can add breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, or a sauce like pesto or salsa. The quality of the chicken and the seasonings are key for great flavor and texture.

What is the ingredient list and nutritional information for this recipe?

You’ll need 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of your chosen seasoning. Here’s the nutritional info per serving: 226 calories, 7g fat, 3g saturated fat, 92mg cholesterol, 628mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate, 34g protein.

What essential equipment is needed to prepare this recipe?

You’ll need a baking dish or sheet pan, a meat tenderizer or rolling pin, measuring spoons, and a meat thermometer. You might also use kitchen shears, a whisk, and plastic wrap for easier pounding.

What is the secret to achieving perfectly tender baked chicken breasts?

Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This ensures even cooking and prevents dryness. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

To retain moisture, avoid overcooking and consider brining the chicken before baking. Letting the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking allows juices to redistribute, resulting in juicier meat.

What are the step-by-step instructions for this recipe?

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C). 2. Pound chicken breasts to even thickness. 3. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and chosen seasoning. 4. Place chicken in a baking dish, brush with oil or butter. 5. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). 6. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Total cooking time is about 30 minutes, including preparation.

What are some seasoning variations and flavor combinations to try?

Try herb combinations like rosemary and thyme, basil and oregano, or dill and parsley. Spice blends include taco seasoning, Italian seasoning, or a simple garlic and onion powder mix. Other flavor ideas include lemon pepper, cajun seasoning, or a honey mustard glaze. These variations allow for diverse flavor profiles while maintaining the simplicity of the 5-ingredient concept.

What are some good side dish pairings for this baked chicken?

Pair the baked chicken with sides like steamed broccoli, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. For a complete meal, consider serving with rice, quinoa, or pasta. Quick options include steamed frozen vegetables or a bagged salad mix. The versatility of the chicken allows it to complement a wide range of side dishes, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.

What common cooking mistakes should be avoided with this recipe?

Avoid cooking chicken at too high or low temperatures. Stick to 425°F (218°C) for best results. Use a meat thermometer to ensure doneness. Don’t overcook the chicken, as it leads to dryness. Check for doneness at the minimum cooking time.

Other mistakes to avoid include not pounding the chicken evenly, forgetting to season, or cutting into the chicken immediately after cooking.

How should the cooked chicken be stored and reheated?

Store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For freezing, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator if frozen, then warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15 minutes, or microwave on medium power until heated through. Always ensure reheated chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internal temperature.

Can this recipe be adapted for other cooking methods?

Yes, this recipe can be adapted for other cooking methods. For grilling, preheat the grill to medium-high and cook for 6-8 minutes per side. For pan-searing, cook in a skillet over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes per side. Air fryer method: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. These methods offer variety while maintaining the simplicity and flavor of the original recipe.