Quick & Easy Baked Thin Chicken Breast – 5 Recipes with Timing Tips

Looking for a fast and flavorful way to cook baked thin chicken breast? Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or need a last-minute dinner idea, these quick recipes are here to save the day. Thin chicken breasts cook faster, absorb flavor better, and make for a juicy, satisfying meal every time — if you follow a few simple timing tips.

Discover five quick and easy recipes featuring thin-sliced chicken breast, perfect for busy weeknights. for busy nights. Each one includes exact baking times, temperature guidelines, and flavor twists to keep things interesting.

   Timing Tip for Thin Chicken Breast

Thin chicken breast (½ inch thick or less) bake best at 400°F (200°C) for 15 to 18 minutes, depending on thickness. Always check for doneness with a meat thermometer — you’re aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

1. Garlic Herb Baked Chicken Breast

A simple and classic go-to. Fresh herbs and garlic bring out the natural flavor of the chicken — no marinating required.

Ingredients:

• 2 thin chicken breast
  
• 2 tbsp olive oil
  
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
  
• 1 tsp dried oregano
  
• 1 tsp dried thyme
  
• Salt & black pepper to taste
  

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
   
2. Rub chicken with oil, garlic, and herbs.
   
3. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
   
4. Bake for 15–17 minutes or until juices run clear.
   

2. Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken

Sweet, tangy, and ready in minutes — this recipe is perfect with roasted veggies or over a salad.

Ingredients:

• 2 thin chicken breasts
  
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
  
• 1 tbsp honey
  
• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
  
• Salt & pepper
  

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
   
2. Mix mustard, honey, and vinegar. Coat chicken evenly.
   
3. Place in a baking dish and bake for 16–18 minutes.
   

3. Lemon Pepper Chicken

Bright and zesty — this one’s ideal for pairing with rice or quinoa.

Ingredients:

• 2 thin chicken breasts
  
• 1 tbsp olive oil
  
• Juice of ½ lemon
  
• 1 tsp lemon zest
  
• ½ tsp cracked black pepper
  
• Pinch of salt
  

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
   
2. Combine oil, lemon, zest, and seasonings. Brush onto chicken.
   
3. Bake for 15–16 minutes until lightly golden.
   

4. Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Crispy edges, cheesy topping, and zero frying. This oven-baked twist on a classic is quick and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 2 thin chicken breasts
  
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  
• ½ tsp garlic powder
  
• 1 tbsp olive oil
  
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)
  

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F for a crispier crust.
   
2. Mix cheese, garlic powder, and a pinch of pepper.
   
3. Brush chicken with olive oil, coat in the cheese mixture.
   
4. Bake for 16–18 minutes until golden and crispy.
   

5. BBQ Baked Thin Chicken Breast

Fast and smoky with your favorite barbecue sauce. Perfect for sliders or wraps.

Ingredients:

• 2 thin chicken breasts
  
• ¼ cup barbecue sauce
  
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
  
• Optional: red chili flakes for heat
  

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
   
2. Rub chicken with paprika and chili flakes, then coat in BBQ sauce.
   
3. Bake uncovered for 17–18 minutes, brushing on extra sauce halfway through.
   

   Final Timing Notes

• For ultra-thin breasts (¼ inch): 12–14 minutes at 400°F
  
• For slightly thicker (½ inch): 15–18 minutes
  
• Use a thermometer for best results — chicken should hit 165°F internally.
  

   Make It a Meal

Pair any of these recipes with:

• Roasted vegetables
  
• Rice or mashed potatoes
  
• Simple green salads
  
• Pasta with olive oil or garlic butter
  

   Final Thoughts

With these quick recipes and time-saving tips, you’ll never be stuck wondering what to do with thin chicken breasts again. These baked thin chicken breast dishes are light, flavorful, and done in under 20 minutes — perfect for any weeknight dinner.