Before anything else, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is hot enough to give the chicken a nice sear on the outside while keeping it juicy inside. Trust me; your patience will pay off!

While the oven warms, take your chicken breasts and flatten them. Use a meat mallet or a rolling pin, ensuring they are an even thickness. This step guarantees they cook at the same rate. Much easier than playing chicken roulette with your dinner!

After flattening, pat the chicken dry with a paper towel. This helps the oil and spices stick. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, thyme, cumin, smoked paprika, roasted garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Rub this mixture all over the chicken breasts. Don’t just stop at one side! Make sure both sides are evenly coated for the ultimate flavor.

Place the seasoned chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This makes cleanup a breeze and prevents sticking. Spread them apart so they have room to breathe.

Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven. Bake the chicken for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. This little gadget will save you from dry chicken and guessing games.

Once baked, it’s crucial to let the chicken rest for at least 5 minutes. Like a comedian who needs time to simmer after telling a great joke, this resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.