Baked Chicken Breasts are a simple yet delicious dish that transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary. With their tender, juicy interior and a crisp, flavorful exterior, these chicken breasts are perfect for weeknight dinners or meal-prepping for the days ahead. Each bite offers a delightful combination of seasoned goodness that makes your taste buds dance. Even better, this recipe is incredibly easy to whip up, ensuring that even the busiest home cooks can serve something truly satisfying.

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
Baked Chicken Breasts

I still remember the first time I made Baked Chicken Breasts. The kitchen filled with that wonderful aroma of seasoned chicken roasting in the oven, a tantalizing scent that beckoned everyone to gather around the table. It was an ordinary night that turned into a family feast, and I’ve been making it ever since. Not only does this recipe provide a quick and healthy dinner option, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser that even your pickiest eaters will enjoy. So, let’s get started on a culinary adventure that gives you a dish everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Ready in just about 55 minutes, this dish comes together with minimal fuss, perfect for busy nights.
Irresistible Flavor: The blend of garlic powder and smoked paprika makes each bite bursting with rich, savory goodness.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The golden-brown hue and juicy texture make your plate look as good as it tastes.
Flexible Serving: Enjoy this dish alongside veggies, in salads, or as a tasty sandwich filling.
Diet-Friendly Options: Naturally low in carbs and gluten-free, it fits well into various diets while still being hearty.

Ingredients You’ll Need

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: Chosen for their tender meat and quick cooking time, ensuring a juicy meal. Try to select pieces of similar thickness for even cooking.
1 tablespoon melted butter or olive oil: Adds a rich flavor and helps your seasonings adhere to the chicken beautifully. Olive oil is a great dairy-free alternative.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the chicken’s natural flavor. If using table salt, reduce the amount as it is saltier by volume.
1/2 teaspoon freshly-ground black pepper: Provides a gentle kick without overpowering the dish.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Introduces a warm smokiness that elevates the entire experience.

How to Make Baked Chicken Breasts

Brine the Chicken: Fill a large mixing bowl with 2 cups of lukewarm water and 1/4 cup kosher salt. Stir until the salt dissolves, then add 2 cups cold water to cool it down. Submerge the chicken breasts in the brine for 15 minutes to enhance juiciness. If you have time, cover and refrigerate for up to 6 hours for even better results. This step is optional but makes a big difference in texture.

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 450°F as you prepare the chicken. This high temperature is essential for ensuring the breasts get that beautiful golden color while locking in moisture.

Prepare the Chicken: Arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer in a large baking dish. Brush them on both sides with 1 tablespoon of melted butter or olive oil, ensuring every inch is covered. 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 mix over both sides of the chicken for a burst of flavor.

Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the thickest part of the chicken reaches 165°F on a meat thermometer. This is where using a thermometer is key, as cooking times can vary based on the chicken’s size and thickness. If you prefer a crispy top, consider turning on the broiler for the last 3-5 minutes, just keep a close eye to avoid burning.

Rest the Chicken: Once the chicken reaches the desired temperature, take it out and transfer the breasts to a clean plate. Loosely tent it with aluminum foil and let it rest for at least 5-10 minutes. This step is crucial; it allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your chicken moist.

Serve Warm: Slice, serve, and enjoy the juiciness of perfectly baked chicken breasts with your favorite side dishes!

Storing & Reheating

To store leftover Baked Chicken Breasts, allow them to cool and then place them in an airtight container. You can safely keep them at room temperature for up to 2 hours. For refrigeration, they last about 3-4 days. For longer storage, wrap the chicken tightly in foil or freezer bags and freeze for up to 3 months. When reheating, preheat your oven to 350°F and place the chicken in to heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Reheated chicken may lose some moisture, so adding a splash of broth can help rejuvinate it.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid Overcooking: To ensure tender meat, pay attention to the internal temperature. Overcooking can dry the chicken out.
Room Temperature Chicken: Let the chicken sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking; this can help in even cooking.
Herb Variations: Experiment by adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the seasoning blend for more depth.
Make Ahead: You can brine the chicken the night before and store it in the fridge for tasty, juicy results without last-minute prep.

Baked Chicken Breasts are not just a simple dish; they encompass a world of flavor, health benefits, and endless versatility that will fit right into your meal rotation. Whether serving them for a family dinner or prepping them for tasty lunch salads, they’re a fantastic choice!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use skin-on chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use skin-on chicken breasts, which will result in even richer flavor. Just adjust the baking time as skin-on pieces may take a bit longer to cook through.

What should I serve alongside baked chicken?

Pair your chicken with a variety of sides! Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad all complement the juicy flavors wonderfully. Try serving it with couscous or quinoa for a nutritious grain addition.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The best way to check doneness is using an instant-read thermometer. When inserted into the thickest part of the breast, it should read 165°F. This ensures that it’s perfectly cooked and safe to eat.

Can I marinate the chicken instead of brining it?

Absolutely! If you prefer marinating, use a mixture of olive oil, vinegar, or your favorite marinade for about 30 minutes to a few hours before baking. This gives the chicken tons of flavor and tenderness.

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Baked Chicken Breasts

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

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Description

Enjoy Baked Chicken Breasts that deliver irresistible flavor and straightforward preparation. With just a few key ingredients, this dish is perfect for a quick and healthy dinner that everyone will love.

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 brining. Mix 2 cups of lukewarm water and 1/4 cup kosher salt in a large bowl until mostly dissolved. Add cold water to cool it down. Immerse the chicken breasts and let them brine for 15 minutes or cover and refrigerate for up to 6 hours. Rinse and pat dry afterward.
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. Season the chicken evenly on both sides.
Bake for 15-18 minutes until fully cooked and no longer pink, with an internal temperature of 165°F. Optionally, turn on the broiler for a crispy top during the last 3-5 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning.
Remove from the oven, transfer chicken to a clean plate, and cover loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

Ensure the thickness of chicken breasts is even for uniform cooking.
Using a meat thermometer provides accuracy for doneness and prevents overcooking.
Broiling can enhance the crispiness of the chicken’s exterior.