This article walks you through how to make crispy, juicy boneless chicken breast in the oven with zero frying. You’ll get the backstory, simple ingredients, oven-baking steps, and answers to common questions. Expect perfect texture and flavorful results without extra oil or hassle.
Table of Contents
Why I Love This Recipe
Why I Switched to Oven-Baked Chicken
I used to pan-fry every chicken breast, but I wanted a hassle-free version that delivered crisp edges and juicy meat without the oil splatter. One evening, I tried baking with seasoned breadcrumbs and a quick blast in a hot oven. The result was golden, crunchy chicken that stayed moist inside. It earned a permanent spot in my dinner lineup.
This method makes chicken that’s just as satisfying as my Juicy Garlic Butter Chicken Breast, but with even less fuss and no pan needed.
How Baking Makes It Crispy and Juicy
The high oven temperature crisps the exterior while locking in the juices. A seasoned breadcrumb coat with garlic and Parmesan adds flavor and crunch—similar to the savory topping in our Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Potatoes, without the sauce. It’s a tweak on comfort food with a fresh twist.
Ingredients & Prep
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- Optional: chopped parsley or lemon wedges
If you love Parmesan and garlic, don’t miss our **Crispy Garlic Butter Parmesan Potatoes** — similar flavors, different veggies.
Prep for Quick Oven Success
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Pound the chicken breasts to even thickness for uniform cooking. Whisk breadcrumbs with Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Brush chicken with oil or butter, then press into breadcrumb mixture so each piece gets a full coat.
Print
Easy Oven-Baked Boneless Chicken Breast
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
Description
Crispy and juicy oven-baked boneless chicken breast with a flavorful Parmesan breadcrumb coating—easy and healthy.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1 lb)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- Optional: chopped parsley, lemon wedges
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Pound chicken to even thickness.
- Mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Brush chicken with oil; press into breadcrumb mix.
- Place on parchment-lined tray and bake 15–18 minutes until crisp and internal temperature is 165°F.
- Let rest 5 minutes, then garnish and serve.
Notes
For extra crunch, double-coat chicken. Brine beforehand for more juiciness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 breast
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
Keywords: oven baked chicken breast, crispy chicken breast, juicy chicken, parmesan chicken
How to Cook It Right
Baking to Crisp Perfection
Place chicken on a parchment-lined baking tray. Bake for 15–18 minutes until golden, internal temperature reaches 165°F, and juices run clear. No turning or flipping needed—just crisp deliciousness.
Finishing Touches and Serving
Let chicken rest 5 minutes before slicing to seal in juices. Garnish with parsley and lemon for freshness.
Serve with sides like roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad—or, if you’re craving more garlic-Parmesan goodness, pair with our **Juicy Garlic Butter Chicken Breast** or crab up your dinner table with our **15-Minute Creamy Garlic Shrimp**.
FAQ
Can I use gluten-free breadcrumbs?
Yes—just choose a crunchy gluten-free variety.
How can I make it extra juicy?
Brine the chicken (salt water bath) for 15 minutes before coating and baking.
Can I bake from frozen?
No—thaw completely first or the coating won’t crisp properly.
How long do leftovers stay good?
Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven for crispness.
Conclusion
Easy Oven-Baked Boneless Chicken Breast (Crispy & Juicy!) delivers the perfect balance of crunch and tenderness, with minimal effort. It’s ideal for quick dinners or meal prep. Try it once and you’ll skip frying forever.