10 Easy Baked Chicken Breast Recipes for Dinner

Baking juicy chicken breasts is easy. These 10 recipes use simple steps like brining, seasoning, and precise roasting. They deliver tender, flavorful meals perfect for busy weeknights. Each dish balances quick prep with big taste.

Top chefs at Gimme Some Oven and Dotdash Meredith Food Studios agree. The 5-step method (brine, brush, rub, roast, rest) ensures every bite stays moist. From herbs to BBQ glaze, these options turn plain chicken into family favorites.

Key Takeaways

• 5-step technique prevents dry chicken
• Recipes use pantry staples like herbs and spices
• Ready in under 30 minutes for fast dinners
• Flavor variations from garlic Parmesan to honey mustard
• Backed by trusted culinary experts

Lemon Herb Baked Chicken

Lemon Herb Baked Chicken makes chicken breast recipes tangy and aromatic. Begin by soaking the meat in lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs for 30 minutes. This step tenderizes the meat and adds flavor before baking.

Next, season with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Spread a herb butter mix, made with softened butter, thyme, rosemary, and lemon zest, over the chicken. Bake at 375°F (190°C) until it reaches 165°F (74°C) inside. Serve with roasted veggies or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

1. Marinate: Soak chicken in lemon-herb mixture for 30 minutes.
2. Season: Coat with oil and spices before adding herb butter.
3. Bake: Ensure even cooking by checking internal temperature.

Add extra garlic or lemon wedges for more flavor. This method is great for meal prep or weeknight dinners. It’s perfect for those who want light yet flavorful chicken without complicated steps.

Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Looking for easy chicken breast recipes with big flavor? This Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken is perfect. It combines buttery garlic, crispy panko, and sharp Parmesan cheese. The recipe makes a golden crust with simple ingredients and a hot oven.

Ingredients	Amount
Unsalted Butter	2 tbsp, melted
Garlic Powder	1 tsp
Grated Parmesan	½ cup
Panko Bread Crumbs	¼ cup

1. Mix melted butter with garlic powder and Parmesan in a bowl.
2. Add panko crumbs to the mixture, stirring until evenly coated.
3. Press the crumb blend onto each chicken breast, coating all sides.
4. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 25 minutes until internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).

Seasoning blends like garlic and Parmesan add depth without complex steps. For extra crunch, pat chicken dry before coating. Serve with a side salad from easy chicken breast recipes for a complete meal.

Honey Mustard Baked Chicken

Turn simple chicken into a tasty, sticky dish with this healthy chicken breast recipe. The honey mustard glaze mixes sweet and tangy, making it light and delicious.

Ingredients	2 chicken breasts, 2 tbsp Dijon mustard, 1 tbsp honey, 1 tsp paprika, olive oil spray
Steps	1. Mix mustard, honey, and paprika in a bowl. 2. Coat chicken with mixture. 3. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 mins. 4. Broil 3 mins for caramelization.

Want to make this recipe even healthier? Try these changes:

• Add a dash of apple cider vinegar for acidity
• Swap honey with maple syrup for vegan options
• Serve over quinoa or roasted veggies

For quicker cooking, slice the chicken thinly. This way, it cooks in 20 minutes. The glaze keeps the chicken moist, perfect for busy nights. Serve with a side salad for a full meal that’s both cozy and healthy.

BBQ Baked Chicken Breast

Turn regular chicken into a smoky delight with this BBQ Baked Chicken Breast. It’s perfect for those who love the best chicken breast recipes. It combines tangy sweetness with a crispy crust. Begin by pounding the chicken to make it even for even cooking.

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp cayenne
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• Your favorite BBQ sauce

Steps:

1. Combine dry rub ingredients (except BBQ sauce). Coat chicken evenly.
2. Marinate 30 minutes to 2 hours in the fridge.
3. Bake at 425°F (218°C) for 20 minutes on a greased baking sheet.
4. Brush with BBQ sauce, then broil 2-3 minutes for a caramelized glaze.

Pro tip: For extra juiciness, tent foil over the chicken halfway through baking. This method yields the best chicken breast recipes. The chicken is tender inside and smoky outside, just like grilled food. Serve with coleslaw or cornbread for a classic Southern twist.

Italian Seasoned Chicken

With simple chicken breast recipes, turn simple chicken breasts into a vibrant Italian feast. This dish combines fresh basil, oregano, and sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, needing just 15 minutes of prep and a few ingredients.

Mix olive oil, minced garlic, and store-bought Italian seasoning in a bowl. Place chicken breasts in a dish, pour the marinade over them, and let sit for 30 minutes. Top with sun-dried tomatoes and shredded mozzarella before baking at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes until juices run clear.

1. Marinate chicken in oil, garlic, and herbs for 30 minutes.
2. Bake until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
3. Garnish with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese.

Customize by adding red pepper flakes for heat or balsamic glaze. Pair with garlic bread or roasted veggies for a complete meal. These simple chicken breast recipes show that gourmet taste doesn’t need complicated steps. Serve with a side salad for a light yet satisfying dinner.

• Swap mozzarella for feta for a tangy twist.
• Use panko breadcrumbs for a crispy crust.

Italian-seasoned chicken turns ordinary ingredients into a dish that impresses. Adjust seasoning levels to suit your palate, and experiment with rosemary or thyme for extra depth. There is no need for takeout when this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results at home.

Baked Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Creamy Mushroom Sauce Baked Chicken is a quick chicken breast recipe winner for weeknight dinners. It combines juicy chicken with a rich, velvety sauce made from sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and cream. It’s perfect for cozy meals and is ready in under 40 minutes.

• Pat the chicken dry and season with salt and pepper.
• Sauté minced garlic and mushrooms until tender, then whisk in cream and herbs.
• Bake chicken on a sheet pan with the sauce mixture at 375°F (190°C) until golden and cooked through.
• Serve over rice, pasta, or with a green salad.

“Comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated—just creamy and comforting.”

For a quick chicken breast recipe upgrade, add a splash of white wine to the sauce or sprinkle Parmesan on top. The one-pan method keeps cleanup simple. Serve it family-style for a hearty meal that feels special without the effort. This dish balances earthy mushrooms with creamy notes, making it a hit for any night of the week.

Paprika Baked Chicken

Spice up your dinner with paprika baked chicken, a simple, delicious chicken breast recipe. This dish uses paprika’s smoky sweetness to make plain chicken stand out. Mix smoked or sweet paprika with garlic powder and black pepper for a flavorful rub.

• 2 tbsp paprika (smoked or sweet)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp black pepper

Coat chicken breasts in the rub before baking at 375°F for 25–30 minutes. The paprika’s rich color makes the dish look great, and the spices create a savory crust. Serve with roasted veggies or a side salad for balance.

Adjust seasoning to taste, add cayenne for heat or lemon juice for brightness. Let the chicken rest 5 minutes after baking to keep the juices in. Perfect for weeknights, this recipe adds variety to your delicious chicken breast recipes. Try different spice ratios to find your favorite blend!

Teriyaki Baked Chicken

Do you love the bold flavors of grilled chicken breast recipes but prefer baking? This Teriyaki Baked Chicken is perfect for you. It combines a sweet glaze with savory umami, all without a grill. Marinate boneless chicken breasts in a mix of soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, and fresh ginger.

The marinade tenderizes the meat and infuses it with classic teriyaki depth. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Place the marinated chicken in a baking dish, saving some marinade for later. Bake for 25 minutes, then brush the reserved sauce onto the chicken and bake for an extra 10 minutes until caramelized.

The result is a golden crust with juicy, flavorful meat. It has the smoky edge of grilled chicken. Serve with steamed veggies or over rice for a quick dinner.

• Ingredients: soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, chicken breasts, sesame seeds (optional garnish).
• Tip: Let the chicken rest 10 minutes post-baking for juicier results.
• Pair with broccoli or quinoa for a balanced meal.

This recipe is great for weeknights, turning grilled chicken breast recipes into oven friendly dishes. No grill? No problem the sticky glaze and caramelized edges make every bite feel like a restaurant meal. Adjust sweetness by reducing honey or adding red pepper flakes for heat. Freeze leftovers for meal prep-friendly lunches!

Spinach & Cheese Stuffed Chicken

This stuffed version of classic baked chicken breast recipes makes them even better. Marinate the chicken breasts in olive oil, then slice them open to make a pocket.

Mix sautéed spinach, crumbled feta, and mozzarella with garlic powder. Stuff this mix inside the chicken, seal with toothpicks, and bake at 375°F for 25–30 minutes.

• Ingredients: Chicken breasts, fresh spinach, feta, mozzarella, olive oil, garlic powder.
• Tools needed: Baking sheet, mixing bowl, sharp knife.

Step	Action
1	Pat the chicken dry before slicing to ensure even cooking.
2	Squeeze spinach to remove excess moisture for a creamier texture.
3	Check the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.

Serve with a side salad or quinoa for a balanced meal. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or date nights. Everyone loves the mix of savory cheese and earthy spinach. Add a sprinkle of paprika for extra flavor.

Baked Chicken Caprese

Baked Chicken Caprese brings a taste of Italy to your table. Top chicken breasts with cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella. Drizzle with balsamic glaze before baking.

This Italian-inspired dinner combines juicy chicken, melted cheese, and tangy sweetness. Serve with a green salad for a vibrant plate. These ten easy chicken recipes, from honey mustard coatings to stuffed varieties, prove baked meals can be exciting.

The Caprese version uses simple ingredients for an elegant yet simple dish. Quick dinners don’t have to be bland. Try all these options and find your new favorite tonight!

FAQ

What are some easy chicken breast recipes suitable for weeknight dinners?

Easy chicken breast recipes for weeknights include Lemon Herb Baked Chicken and Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken. Honey Mustard Baked Chicken is also a great choice. These recipes are simple and tasty, making dinner prep easy!

How can I keep baked chicken breasts juicy?

To keep chicken breasts juicy, brine them briefly before baking. Use butter or olive oil to keep moisture in. Baking at higher temperatures helps create a crispy crust without drying out the meat.

Are there any healthy baked chicken breast recipes?

Yes! Healthy options include Italian seasoned chicken with fresh herbs and Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Chicken. These dishes are full of flavor and good for you.

Can I customize the seasonings in these recipes?

Absolutely! Each recipe is a starting point. Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to make it your own.

What is the best way to bake chicken for maximum flavor?

Use marinades, seasoning mixes, or sauces to boost flavor. Baking at a higher temperature helps create a crispy crust while keeping the inside juicy.

How do I ensure my baked chicken breasts are tender?

Avoid overcooking to prevent dryness. Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F internal temperature. Marinating before baking also helps achieve tenderness and flavor.

What side dishes pair well with baked chicken breasts?

Baked chicken is a complete meal when paired with roasted vegetables, quinoa salad, or mashed sweet potatoes. These sides complement the chicken’s flavor.

How can I make baked chicken recipes more kid-friendly?

To appeal to kids, use familiar flavors like BBQ or Honey Mustard. A fun presentation, such as drizzling sauce on top, can also make the meal more appealing.

Are baked chicken breast recipes suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Baked chicken breast recipes are perfect for meal prep. Cook in batches, store in the fridge, and enjoy all week. BBQ Baked Chicken or Teriyaki Baked Chicken works well for this.

How can I add variety to my baked chicken recipes?

Experiment with different marinades, spices, and cooking techniques. Try Asian flavors for Teriyaki Baked Chicken or Mediterranean herbs for Italian Seasoned Chicken to mix things up!