Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C) for optimal cooking temperature.
Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board. If they are uneven in thickness, use a meat mallet or the back of a heavy pan to pound them to an even thickness. This ensures even cooking.
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Brush each breast with extra virgin olive oil to help the seasonings adhere and retain moisture during baking.
Sprinkle salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder evenly on both sides of the chicken breasts. Rub gently to ensure the seasoning sticks.
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 18-22 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken juicy.
Slice and serve with your favorite side dishes, or use in salads, sandwiches, or wraps.
