Baked Chicken Breasts
Baked chicken breasts are all about simplicity and taste. They come together in just over an hour, presenting as a juicy, flavor-packed protein option that fits perfectly into any meal. Whether you’re prepping a quick weeknight dinner or inviting friends over for a casual gathering, this dish boasts that cozy, homemade vibe that makes everyone feel welcome. The beauty of baked chicken breasts lies in their versatility; they can accompany roasted vegetables, fluffy grains, or even fresh salads, easily making them a staple in your recipe repertoire.
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I remember the first time I made baked chicken breasts—I had just moved into my first apartment. With limited cooking skills and a small kitchen, this dish felt like a milestone. The moment the chicken breasts came out of the oven, golden and fragrant, I felt a sense of accomplishment. That first bite was everything I hoped for: tender, juicy, and seasoned just right. Now, every time I prepare baked chicken breasts, it reminds me that cooking can be straightforward yet rewarding. You’ll appreciate the effortlessly delightful results just as I do—let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: Ready in under an hour with minimal prep work.
- Irresistible Flavor: The blend of garlic powder and smoked paprika adds a warm, savory kick.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: Golden, crispy edges make for a beautiful presentation.
- Flexible Serving: Perfect for dinners, meal prep, or even a casual lunch.
- Diet-Friendly Options: Naturally gluten-free and easy to adjust for different dietary needs.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: Boneless chicken breasts ensure quick cooking and easy portioning. Look for ones that are pounded to even thickness for consistent cooking.
- 1 tablespoon melted butter or olive oil: This adds richness and helps the seasonings stick. Use olive oil for a lighter option, or butter for a classic taste.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances flavor and helps tenderize the chicken. Feel free to reduce if you’re watching sodium intake.
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly-ground black pepper: Adds a hint of heat and depth. Freshly ground pepper brings a more vibrant flavor compared to pre-ground versions.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Offers a savory punch without the fuss of chopping garlic. It blends well with other spices.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Delivers a subtle smokiness and beautiful color. You can swap it with sweet paprika if you prefer a milder taste.
How to Make Baked Chicken Breasts
Brine the Chicken: If your chicken breasts haven’t been pre-brined, start by preparing a brine. Fill a large mixing bowl with 2 cups of lukewarm water and add 1/4 cup kosher salt. Stir until most of the salt dissolves, then add 2 cups of cold water to cool it down. Let the chicken breasts soak for 15 minutes; if you have time, refrigerate them for up to 6 hours for even better results. After brining, rinse the chicken under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F. This high heat ensures the chicken cooks quickly, keeping it juicy and flavorful while achieving a lovely golden crust.
Prepare the Chicken: Arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer in a large baking dish. Brush both sides with 1 tablespoon of melted butter or olive oil, making sure each piece is well-coated. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon freshly-ground black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika. Sprinkle this seasoning mixture evenly over the chicken breasts on both sides.
Bake the Chicken: Bake the chicken for 15-18 minutes, depending on thickness. To ensure it’s cooked through, use a cooking thermometer to check that the thickest part of the breast reaches 165°F. If you like a crispy top, switch to the broiler for the last 3-5 minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.
Rest the Chicken: Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and transfer it to a clean plate. Loosely cover the plate with aluminum foil and let it rest for at least 5-10 minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a succulent bite.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve your beautifully baked chicken breasts warm, perhaps alongside your favorite sides. This dish is just as satisfying on its own or integrated into a delightful meal.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover baked chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you prefer to freeze them, wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy again, reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also use a microwave, but keep in mind that the texture may not be as delightful as when reheated in the oven.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Avoid overcooking by using a meat thermometer; always check the thickest part of the chicken.
- Brining is optional but enhances texture and flavor, especially for lean meats like chicken.
- If your chicken breasts aren’t evenly thick, consider pounding them gently for even cooking.
- Don’t skip the resting period—it’s key for juicy chicken!
- Experiment with different seasonings based on your taste preferences; Italian herbs or lemon zest can add fabulous flavors.
Baked chicken breasts are a fantastic dish that showcases the beauty of simple cooking. Plus, they invite a bit of creativity, whether it’s swapping in favorite spices or serving it alongside grains and veggies you love. Enjoying your cooking journey is the best part, and I can’t wait for you to try this recipe.
Recipe FAQs
Can I add additional spices to the chicken?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the flavor by adding your favorite herbs and spices. Italian seasoning, chili powder, or even a dash of lemon zest can add wonderful complexity.
How do I know if my chicken is cooked thoroughly?
Using a meat thermometer is the most reliable method. Chicken is safe to eat when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, look for juices running clear and that the meat is no longer pink inside.
Can I make this recipe with skin-on chicken breasts?
Yes, you can! However, cooking times may vary slightly, so be sure to monitor closely for doneness. The skin will also render some fat, adding flavor and moisture.
What’s the best way to serve baked chicken breasts?
You have endless options! Serve with roasted vegetables, over a fresh salad, or alongside hearty grains like quinoa or rice. A tasty sauce, like a homemade garlic butter sauce, can also elevate the dish even more.
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📖 Recipe Card
Baked Chicken Breasts
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dishes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Baked Chicken Breasts are simple yet flavorful, made with juicy chicken seasoned to perfection. Ideal for quick dinners or healthy meals, this recipe is a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness
- 1 tablespoon melted butter or olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly-ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions
- If your chicken breasts are pre-brined, skip this step. In a large bowl, mix 2 cups lukewarm water with 1/4 cup kosher salt until dissolved. Add 2 cups cold water or ice to cool down the brine. Submerge chicken in the brine for 15 minutes, or refrigerate for up to 6 hours. Rinse with cold water and pat dry.
- Preheat the oven to 450°F.
- Arrange chicken breasts in a large baking dish. Brush both sides with melted butter or olive oil. In another bowl, mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, then sprinkle over both sides of the chicken.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes until chicken is no longer pink, checking with a cooking thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F. For a crispy top, broil for an additional 3-5 minutes at the end while monitoring closely.
- Remove the chicken from the oven, transfer to a plate, and cover loosely with foil. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes.
- Serve warm.
Notes
Letting the chicken rest ensures juiciness is preserved.
Using a thermometer is the best way to know when the chicken is perfectly cooked.
Feel free to experiment with other spices for different flavor profiles.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 165
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
