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
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.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 120mg