Oven Baked Chicken That Won't Disappoint

In my quest to plan my menus for the week, prep meals in advance and stay on a healthy eating regimen, I find that we consume A LOT of chicken breasts.  Chicken is a great source of lean protein, most everybody likes it and there is so much you can do with it!  BUT, it can get boring.  AND sometimes people think it's DRY and lacking FLAVOR.  SO, I have been working on making moist and tasty chicken for all sorts of dishes.

INGREDIENTS

• Chicken breasts (about 8 oz. each)--(you can cook as many as you like, but for this recipe I cooked 3, but the seasoning would be enough for 5 to 6)
• Olive Oil
• 1 tsp. kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp. fresh ground black pepper
• 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp. onion powder
• 1/2 tsp. oregano
• 1/2 tsp. paprika

DIRECTIONS

1.  Preheat the oven to 450 degrees.  (yes, 450 degrees.  I swear.)
2.  Line a baking sheet with foil.  I like to use a little wire rack to raise the chicken off the pan, but it is not necessary.
3.  Brush the chicken with olive oil on both sides.  

This is a great all-purpose seasoning!

4.  Sprinkle the seasoning over the chicken, both sides.  I like a lot of seasoning and I rub it into the chicken after I sprinkle it on.  

See how the color changes when you rub
the seasoning into the chicken?

 5.  Bake, uncovered for 8 minutes, flip to eh other side and bake for another 8 to 10 min.  If your chicken breasts are larger, like 10 oz., you will have to adjust the cooking time to 10 to 12 minutes.  Go for less than more.  You can always cook another minute after you test them.  

 Be sure to let your chicken rest about 5 minutes before slicing.  

Chicken is so versatile and you will love this tasty recipe for all of your make-ahead dishes.  Here are some great ways to use your delicious baked chicken:

• Make a wrap:  use a whole wheat burrito sized tortilla.  Add shredded lettuce, diced tomato and shredded cheese with a little salad dressing (my girls love Ranch)--roll in foil and it makes a great school lunch
• Top a fresh salad
• Add to pasta and marinara or a pasta salad
• Add to quinoa tabbouleh for added protein
• Serve with a starch and vegetable for a great dinner
•  Chop a chicken breast and add 2 T. of BBQ sauce and serve on whole wheat hamburger buns.  (One of Charlie's favorites)