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Juicy Oven-Baked Chicken Breasts with Crispy Skin

This baked chicken recipe uses a simple seasoning method and precise oven control to produce tender, juicy meat paired with irresistibly crispy skin. Main ingredients include skin-on chicken breasts, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and olive oil, which come together to create a flavorful, visually appealing dish. The final result offers a golden, crispy exterior with moist, succulent interior—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or elegant serving.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces chicken breasts preferably skin-on
  • 1 teaspoon salt sea salt recommended
  • ½ teaspoon pepper freshly ground
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika adds smoky flavor and color
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil light coating
  • ½ lemon lemon optional, for serving

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Meat thermometer
  • Kitchen towel

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F).
  2. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels, focusing on removing excess moisture from the skin to ensure crispiness.
  3. Rub the chicken breasts all over with olive oil, then generously season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika, pressing the spices into the skin.
  4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the seasoned chicken breasts on top, skin side up, making sure they aren't touching.
  5. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 75°C (165°F).
  6. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes on a cutting board or plate; this allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the meat moist.
  7. Optional: squeeze fresh lemon over the chicken for a bright, citrusy finish before serving.