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Juicy Oven-Baked Chicken Breasts

A reliable method to achieve juicy and flavorful baked chicken breasts without the stress of constant monitoring.
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Temps de préparation 30 minutes
Temps de cuisson 20 minutes
Temps total 50 minutes
Portions: 4 servings
Type de plat: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingrédients
  

Chicken Preparation
  • 4 Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, about 8 to 10 ounces each Even thickness if possible
  • 1-2 tablespoons Olive oil For moisture and flavor
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher salt About 1 teaspoon per pound, plus a pinch to taste
  • to taste Black pepper Freshly ground for best flavor
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika For color and warmth
  • 1/2 teaspoon Onion powder
  • 1/2-1 teaspoon Brown sugar Optional for a hint of caramelization
  • 1 tablespoon Butter To melt over the top after baking
  • to taste Fresh herbs (parsley or thyme) Chopped for garnish

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
  2. In a bowl, mix olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, and brown sugar if using.
  3. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, ensuring to get into the edges.
  4. If time allows, let the chicken rest in the fridge for 20 to 30 minutes.
  5. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a sheet pan with foil or use a baking dish.
  6. Add a light drizzle of oil to the pan to prevent sticking.
Cooking
  1. Place the chicken breasts on the pan with space between them.
  2. If one chicken breast is thicker on one end, gently pound it to an even thickness.
  3. Bake for 16 to 20 minutes depending on thickness, starting to check internal temperature at minute 15.
  4. When the thickest part reads 160°F to 163°F on a thermometer, pull the chicken out.
  5. Let the chicken rest on the pan for 5 to 7 minutes; this will carryover heat to bring it to 165°F.
  6. Melt a small pat of butter over the top while it rests and squeeze a little lemon juice before slicing.

Notes

For the best flavor, let the chicken rest to ensure it stays juicy. Adjust salt to taste and remember, cooking times may vary based on the thickness of the chicken breasts. Use a thermometer for precision.