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Baked Chicken Breasts

A simple and flexible method for juicy baked chicken breasts that works perfectly for busy weeknights.
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Temps de préparation 15 minutes
Temps de cuisson 25 minutes
Temps total 40 minutes
Portions: 4 servings
Type de plat: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 280
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingrédients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 to 4 count boneless, skinless chicken breasts, about 6 to 8 ounces each
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon smoked or sweet paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
  • pinch cayenne (optional) for extra warmth
Optional Marinade/Brine
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for marinade
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice for marinade
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard for marinade
  • 1 count minced garlic clove for marinade
  • honey to taste optional for marinade
  • 3 cups water for brine
  • 3 tablespoons kosher salt for brine

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment.
  2. If your chicken breasts are very thick, place them in a zip-top bag and gently pound the thick side to even out to about 3/4 to 1 inch thick.
Cooking
  1. Pat the chicken dry and rub with olive oil. Sprinkle evenly with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme.
  2. Place the chicken on the baking sheet, leaving space between each piece.
  3. Bake for 16 to 20 minutes or until the thickest part reaches 165°F on a meat thermometer. Start checking at 14 minutes for smaller pieces, and check at 22 minutes for larger pieces.
  4. Rest the chicken on the pan for 5 to 8 minutes.
  5. Slice against the grain and drizzle any pan juices over the top. Optionally, brush with melted butter and a squeeze of lemon for added flavor.

Notes

For best results, season chicken from high up for even coverage, use a thermometer, and don’t skip the resting period. Brining or marinating, even for a short time, enhances juiciness.