Baked Chicken Breast at 400°F - Juicy and Tender

Prep: 10 minCook: 20 min4 servingsmediumAmerican
Baked Chicken Breast at 400°F - Juicy and Tender

This simple baked chicken breast recipe delivers perfectly juicy and tender results every time. Seasoned with garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then brushed with BBQ sauce or olive oil, the chicken bakes at 400°F for just 15-20 minutes. The key is starting with room temperature chicken and letting it rest after cooking to redistribute the juices. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or serving alongside your favorite sides.

Gluten-FreeDairy-FreeNut-FreeKeto

Ingredients

4 servings
  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breast
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    fresh minced garlic1 tsp powder = 2 clovesFresh garlic provides stronger flavor

    4

    Full guide →
  • ¼ cup BBQ sauce(optional)
    olive oil1:1Simple oil coating instead of sweet sauce

    5

    Full guide →

Instructions

  1. 1

    Remove chicken from refrigerator and let sit at room temperature

  2. 2

    Preheat oven to 400 degrees F

  3. 3

    Place chicken breasts on a baking sheet

  4. 4

    Brush chicken with BBQ sauce or coat with olive oil

  5. 5

    Season chicken with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder

  6. 6

    Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165 degrees

  7. 7

    Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving

Tips

Tip 1

Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches exactly 165°F internal temperature for food safety.

Tip 2

Pound chicken to even thickness for more uniform cooking if breasts are very thick.

Tip 3

Substitute olive oil for BBQ sauce if you prefer a simpler flavor profile.

Good to Know

Storage

Store cooked chicken in refrigerator for up to 4 days in airtight container.

Make Ahead

Can season chicken up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate covered.

Serve With

Slice and serve immediately with vegetables, rice, or salad.

Common Mistakes

Watch

Don't skip the resting time to avoid dry chicken with escaped juices.

Watch

Don't overcook past 165°F internal temperature to prevent dryness.

Substitutions

BBQ sauce→
olive oil1:1Simple oil coating instead of sweet sauce

5

Full guide →
garlic powder→
fresh minced garlic1 tsp powder = 2 clovesFresh garlic provides stronger flavor

4

Full guide →
Find more substitutions →

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Thaw completely first. Frozen chicken will cook unevenly and take much longer, potentially drying out the exterior before the center cooks through.

What if my chicken breasts are different sizes?

Pound thicker pieces to match the thinnest, or remove smaller pieces earlier when they reach 165°F to prevent overcooking.

How long will this keep in the fridge?

Cooked chicken breast stays fresh for 3-4 days refrigerated in an airtight container and reheats well in the microwave or oven.