Name: Baked Chicken Breasts
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
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

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Baked Chicken Breasts are the ultimate solution for those busy weeknights when you crave something wholesome and delicious without the fuss. This simple dish boasts succulent chicken that, when seasoned just right, becomes a warm invitation to gather around the dinner table. Juicy and tender, these chicken breasts are a delight for the senses, with a golden exterior that hints at the savory goodness within.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Baked Chicken Breasts
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Baked Chicken Breasts

I still remember the first time I ventured into making Baked Chicken Breasts—it was a chilly evening, and I had little time but a craving for something comforting. With just a handful of ingredients, I found myself in the kitchen creating a dish that was not only easy to prepare but also a household favorite. This versatile staple can be dressed up for a special occasion or served casually on a weeknight, making it both budget-friendly and crowd-pleasing. I can’t wait for you to give it a try!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Just 20 minutes of prep work followed by 35 minutes of cooking, making it perfect for busy evenings.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of garlic powder and smoked paprika creates a mouthwatering aroma and rich flavor.
Eye-Catching Appeal: Those golden, crispy edges make every plate look stunning and appetizing.
Flexible Serving: Whether for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this chicken fits perfectly in any setting.
Diet-Friendly Options: Naturally gluten-free and doesn’t contain any dairy, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness: This main component provides a juicy and tender bite. Pounding ensures even cooking, so you don’t end up with dry edges and a raw center.
1 tablespoon melted butter or olive oil: Use melted butter for richness or olive oil for a healthier option. Both enhance the flavor while helping seasonings stick.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for drawing out flavors. If you’re watching sodium intake, you might substitute with a low-sodium alternative.
1/2 teaspoon freshly-ground black pepper: Freshly ground brings a more robust flavor compared to pre-ground. Adjust the amount to your taste.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a savory depth. You could use fresh garlic if preferred—just mince one clove and adjust as necessary.
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: This ingredient adds a lovely warmth and color. If you don’t have smoked, regular paprika can be used, though the flavor will be less complex.

How to Make Baked Chicken Breasts

Brine (Optional): If your chicken breasts are not pre-brined, start by filling a large mixing bowl with 2 cups of lukewarm water and 1/4 cup of kosher salt. Stir until most of the salt dissolves, then add 2 cups of cold water (or ice cubes). Submerge the chicken breasts for 15 minutes—this step enhances juiciness. If you have more time, cover and refrigerate for up to 6 hours. Once brined, rinse the chicken with cold water and pat them dry using paper towels.

Preheat: Set your oven to 450°F (232°C). A hot oven will help the chicken cook quickly and evenly, ensuring a juicy result.

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, ensuring every nook is covered for flavor.

Season: In a small bowl, whisk together the kosher salt, freshly-ground black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until well mixed. Sprinkle this seasoning evenly over both sides of the chicken, making sure they’re well-coated.

Bake: Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink in the center. For perfect doneness, the thickest part of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). If you prefer a little browning on top, switch on the broiler for the last 3-5 minutes; just keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

Rest: After baking, remove the chicken from the oven and transfer to a clean plate. Tent it loosely with aluminum foil and allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes. This step helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a moist and flavorful bite.

Serve: Enjoy the chicken warm! You can slice it up and serve it with your favorite sides or even toss it into salads or wraps.

Storing & Reheating

To store leftover baked chicken breasts, allow them to cool before placing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should be consumed within 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken by wrapping individual pieces tightly in foil or freezing bags—this way, it stays fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes; just be aware that the texture may become slightly drier after freezing, so a drizzle of broth or a splash of water can help rejuvenate it.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overcooking the chicken by monitoring the cooking time closely, especially if they are thinner or thicker than average.
For an extra level of flavor, try adding herbs such as thyme or rosemary to the seasoning mixture.
If you’re preparing a large batch, consider cooking the chicken in batches to ensure that the temperature remains consistent.
Letting your chicken breasts come to room temperature before cooking can help them cook more evenly.
Resting is crucial; don’t skip this step as it enhances the juiciness and overall flavor of your chicken.

When it comes to Baked Chicken Breasts, the possibilities for enjoyment are endless! The excellent balance of simplicity and flavor makes this recipe a delightful addition to your cooking repertoire. Feel free to experiment with different herbs or spices to suit your palate. This dish not only celebrates the chicken’s natural goodness but also allows room for personal touches, making it uniquely yours. Enjoy every bite!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be substituted for breasts, though they may require a slightly longer cooking time due to their thicker meat. They will yield a richer flavor and remain juicier as well.

What can I serve with baked chicken breasts?

Baked chicken breasts pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. You can also use leftover chicken in sandwiches or wraps for a delicious meal.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The best way to tell if your chicken is cooked through is by using a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the breast; it should read 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, make a cut in the thickest part; the juices should run clear, and there should be no pink meat.

Can I marinate the chicken instead of using spices?

Definitely! Marinating your chicken breasts for a few hours or overnight can infuse them with incredible flavors. Use a mixture of olive oil, vinegar, and herbs to create a quick marinade that enhances the taste before baking.

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Baked Chicken Breasts

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Author: Peter
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Dishes
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

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Description

Baked Chicken Breasts are a delicious and simple dish made with juicy chicken, a blend of spices, and just a few ingredients. Perfect for a quick and healthy meal any day!

Ingredients

Scale

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

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Instructions

If the chicken breasts are pre-brined, skip to the next step. Otherwise, create a brine by mixing 2 cups of lukewarm water with 1/4 cup kosher salt. Stir until most of the salt is absorbed, then add 2 cups of cold water or ice cubes. Submerge the chicken breasts in the brine for 15 minutes (or refrigerate for up to 6 hours). After brining, rinse the chicken under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
Preheat the oven to 450°F.
Arrange chicken breasts in a single layer in a large baking dish. Brush both sides with melted butter or olive oil. In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Sprinkle evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
Bake the chicken for 15-18 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. For a crispier finish, broil on high for the last 3-5 minutes, monitoring closely to avoid burning.
Once cooked, remove from the oven, transfer to a clean plate, and tent loosely with aluminum foil. Allow to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving warm.

Notes

For best results, use a cooking thermometer to ensure chicken is perfectly cooked.
Feel free to add your favorite herbs and spices for additional flavor.
Allowing the chicken to rest enhances moisture and flavor.