Baked Thin Chicken Breast: Quick, Juicy, and Bursting with Flavor

Make juicy baked thin chicken breast in under 20 minutes! This easy, healthy recipe uses simple spices, olive oil, and lemon for perfectly tender chicken every time. Ideal for weeknight dinners, salads, or meal prep.

There’s something magical about the simplicity of a perfectly baked thin chicken breast. It’s quick, juicy, and seasoned just right, what more could a busy home cook ask for? Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner for your family or planning ahead for meal prep, this recipe delivers tenderness and flavor every single time.

The best part? You only need a few pantry staples and less than 20 minutes to pull this together. No fancy marinades, no complicated steps, just pure, delicious, baked goodness that makes your kitchen smell incredible.

I’ve been making this recipe for years, and it never fails to impress my kids (and they’re tough critics!). If you’ve ever struggled with dry, overcooked chicken, don’t worry. This guide will show you exactly how to bake thin chicken breasts that stay juicy and full of life.

Main Ingredients for Perfect Baked Thin Chicken Breast

Let’s start with the essentials. The beauty of this recipe is how simple the ingredients are. Each one plays an important role in creating that perfect flavor balance and texture we all crave.

• 3 large chicken breasts (sliced in half) – You’ll want to cut each one lengthwise from the thickest part to the thinnest. This ensures even cooking and gives you those quick, thin cuts perfect for baking.
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil – This helps the seasoning stick and keeps the chicken moist during baking.
• 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika – The secret to that warm, smoky flavor that gives your chicken that golden color.
• 1 teaspoon of dried parsley – A little earthy freshness that complements the richness of the olive oil.
• 1 teaspoon of black pepper – Adds a subtle bite that balances the smoky sweetness of paprika.
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder – Builds depth and gives your chicken a savory, homey aroma.
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder – Because what’s chicken without garlic? It adds that irresistible flavor punch.
• Salt, to taste – Don’t skip it! Salt enhances every other flavor in this recipe.
• Lemon wedges (for serving) – A squeeze of fresh lemon at the end brightens everything up.
• Optional fresh parsley – For that final touch of freshness and color.

If you enjoy smoky, oven-baked flavors, you’ll also love trying my baked BBQ chicken breast, it’s tender, saucy, and perfect for summer dinners.

Additional Ingredients and Flavor Boosters

If you’re anything like me, you enjoy experimenting in the kitchen. The beauty of baked thin chicken breast is its flexibility. Here are a few optional add-ins and substitutions to mix things up.

• Butter: Add a tablespoon of melted butter to the olive oil mix for a richer, more indulgent flavor.
• Fresh herbs: Swap dried parsley for fresh rosemary, thyme, or basil for a fragrant, garden-fresh twist.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes if you like a bit of heat.
• Lemon zest: Grate a bit of lemon zest into your seasoning mix for a burst of citrusy brightness.
• Honey or maple syrup: A drizzle before baking creates a beautiful caramelized glaze that pairs perfectly with paprika.
• Substitute chicken: If you’re out of chicken breasts, chicken tenders or thinly sliced thighs also work great. Just adjust the cooking time slightly.

And if you’re in the mood for something a little more indulgent, check out these baked stuffed chicken breast recipes, they’re flavorful, comforting, and surprisingly easy to make.

Remember, cooking should be fun! Don’t be afraid to personalize your recipe. After all, your kitchen is your playground.

Expert Tips for Juicy and Flavorful Baked Thin Chicken Breast

Now, here’s where we get to the good stuff. Baking chicken may seem simple, but there are a few insider tricks that make all the difference between “just okay” and “wow, this is amazing!”

• Slice Evenly
  The key to perfectly baked thin chicken breast lies in how evenly you slice them. Uneven pieces cook at different speeds, leading to dry or undercooked spots. Take your time slicing from the thickest end to the thinnest, using a sharp knife for clean cuts.
• Don’t Overcook
  This one’s huge. Thin chicken cooks fast, really fast. You’ll only need 8 to 12 minutes in a 400°F (205°C) oven. Keep a close eye on the clock and use a meat thermometer if you can. The perfect internal temperature is 165°F (74°C).
• Use a Wire Rack or Parchment Paper
  If you want your chicken to bake evenly and not steam on the pan, use a wire rack on your baking tray. Or, line your tray with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Let It Rest
  After baking, let your chicken rest for 5 minutes before cutting into it. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it moist and tender.
• Marinate (If You Have Time)
  Even a quick 15-minute rest in olive oil and spices can deepen the flavor. If you’ve got extra time, let the chicken marinate for up to an hour before baking.
• Don’t Skip the Lemon
  That final squeeze of lemon might seem like a garnish, but it’s the finishing touch that brings all the flavors together. It cuts through the richness and gives your chicken a fresh, lively pop.
• Double the Batch
  This chicken is fantastic for meal prep. Bake a double batch and store the extras for salads, wraps, or sandwiches during the week.

If you prefer a little heat and sweetness, my honey sriracha chicken delivers that perfect spicy-sweet balance. It’s another simple recipe that transforms everyday chicken into something truly special.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! Here’s the simple, foolproof way to make this recipe from start to finish.

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (205°C). This temperature gives the perfect balance of fast cooking and juicy texture.
2. Slice your chicken breasts in half lengthwise, starting from the thickest part. Aim for even thickness so everything bakes uniformly.
3. Season the chicken. In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, black pepper, and salt. Toss the chicken in this mixture, then drizzle with olive oil and coat evenly.
4. Arrange on a baking tray. Lay each piece flat without overlapping. Crowding the pan traps steam and can make your chicken soggy.
5. Bake for 8–12 minutes. Check the internal temperature, 165°F (74°C) means you’re good to go.
6. Rest and serve. Let it rest for a few minutes, then top with a squeeze of lemon juice and fresh parsley. Enjoy your delicious baked thin chicken breast just as it is, or pair it with your favorite side dish!

Additional Guide: Variations and Serving Ideas

Once you’ve nailed the base recipe, it’s fun to play around with flavors and serving styles. Here are a few creative ways to enjoy your baked thin chicken breast.

• Italian style: Add a sprinkle of Parmesan and oregano, then serve with pasta and marinara sauce.
• Asian-inspired: Mix soy sauce, sesame oil, and a dash of ginger for a sweet-salty glaze. Serve with steamed rice and broccoli.
• Tex-Mex twist: Add cumin, chili powder, and lime juice for a zesty kick. Slice it for tacos or burrito bowls.
• Mediterranean flair: Combine olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese for a fresh, tangy topping.
• Salad perfection: Slice the chicken thin and toss it over a crisp garden salad with a drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette.

For a one-pan meal that’s hearty and satisfying, you might love my oven-baked chicken and rice recipe, it’s a family favorite that pairs perfectly with this dish.

It also pairs beautifully with a simple chicken flavored rice side dish, it’s light, fluffy, and packed with comforting flavor.

FAQs About Baked Thin Chicken Breast

Conclusion

And there you have it, a simple, wholesome baked thin chicken breast recipe that’s bursting with flavor and ready in no time. It’s the kind of dish that proves you don’t need complicated ingredients or fancy techniques to create something truly delicious.

What I love most about this recipe is how adaptable it is. It fits right into a busy weeknight dinner rotation, but it’s also elegant enough for a Sunday family meal. Whether you’re feeding kids, cooking for yourself, or entertaining guests, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.

So go ahead, preheat that oven, and make this your new go-to chicken recipe. Once you try it, I have a feeling it’ll earn a permanent spot in your meal plan.

Baked Thin Chicken Breast

This juicy baked thin chicken breast is a quick and easy recipe made with simple pantry spices and olive oil. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s tender, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights or healthy meal prep!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 12 minutes mins

Total Time 22 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 6 pieces

Calories 210 kcal

Equipment

• Baking Tray
• Tongs
• Meat Thermometer

Ingredients

  

Chicken

• 3 large chicken breasts sliced in half lengthwise

Seasoning Mix

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• salt to taste

To Serve

• lemon wedges for serving
• fresh parsley optional garnish

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C).
• Carefully slice the chicken breasts lengthwise from the thickest part to the thinnest, starting from the top and working down. Place the chicken in a bowl.
• In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, dried parsley, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and a big pinch of salt.
• Using tongs, evenly coat the chicken with the seasoning. Add olive oil and toss to combine.
• Place the chicken on a large baking tray, ensuring no pieces are overlapping.
• Bake for 8–12 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Serve warm with a squeeze of lemon juice, a crack of black pepper, and optional fresh parsley on top.

Notes

For the juiciest result, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking before slicing. This helps the juices settle inside the meat. Pair it with oven-baked chicken and rice or chicken flavored rice for a complete meal.

Keyword baked thin chicken breast, healthy chicken dinner, oven-baked chicken