Here’s a simple three-ingredient oven-baked chicken recipe that is easy, flavorful, and beginner-friendly.
Three-Ingredient Oven-Baked Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or chicken thighs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1–2 teaspoons salt (adjust to taste)
Optional: Add black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, or herbs if you don’t need it to stay strictly three ingredients.
Instructions
- Preheat the oven
Heat oven to 400°F (200°C). - Prepare the chicken
Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel. Rub both sides with olive oil and season with salt. - Bake
Place chicken in a baking dish or on a lined baking sheet. Bake for about 20–30 minutes for chicken breasts, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). - Rest before serving
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to help keep it juicy.
Tips for better results
- Use chicken thighs for a juicier option.
- Avoid overbaking, as lean chicken breast can dry out.
- Pound thicker chicken breasts to an even thickness so they cook more evenly.
Serve with vegetables, salad, rice, or roasted potatoes for a simple meal.
You can also make a flavorful three-ingredient version with chicken + honey + mustard or chicken + lemon + garlic if you want more flavor without adding many ingredients.
