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
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.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg