This Classic Baked Chicken Breast recipe is simple, flavorful, and incredibly juicy. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can have tender, perfectly seasoned chicken breasts ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a go-to for a healthy, satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Classic Baked Chicken Breast Recipe
- Juicy & Tender: The chicken breasts come out perfectly juicy every time, thanks to a quick brine and high-heat baking.
- Simple & Quick: With minimal ingredients and prep, you can have dinner on the table in under 30 minutes.
- Versatile: This baked chicken can be used in salads, sandwiches, wraps, or served with your favorite side dishes.
- Healthy & Flavorful: Seasoned with simple spices and baked to perfection, this chicken is both healthy and delicious.
Key Ingredients for Classic Baked Chicken Breast
1. Chicken Breasts
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe. Choose breasts that are roughly the same size to ensure even cooking.
2. Olive Oil
- Olive oil helps keep the chicken moist during baking and adds a subtle richness to the flavor.
3. Seasonings
- A simple blend of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika adds a delicious, savory flavor to the chicken.
4. Fresh Herbs (Optional)
- Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can be added for extra flavor, but this recipe is great with just basic spices as well.
How to Make Classic Baked Chicken Breast
This easy baked chicken recipe delivers juicy, flavorful chicken breasts with minimal effort. Here’s how to make it:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
Step 2: Prep the Chicken Breasts
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. If your chicken breasts are very thick, consider pounding them to an even thickness to ensure even cooking.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
- In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon paprika. Rub the chicken breasts with 1-2 tablespoons olive oil, then sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of each chicken breast.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
- Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.
Step 5: Rest the Chicken
- Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender chicken.
Tips for Making the Best Baked Chicken Breast
1. Use a Meat Thermometer
- The key to perfectly cooked chicken is using a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F without overcooking. This prevents dry, tough chicken.
2. Pound the Chicken
- If your chicken breasts are uneven in thickness, pound them to an even thickness. This helps the chicken cook evenly and prevents thinner parts from drying out.
3. Don’t Skip the Resting Time
- Allowing the chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking is crucial. It lets the juices settle, resulting in moist and tender chicken.
4. Brine for Extra Juiciness
- For even juicier chicken, you can brine the breasts in a mixture of water and salt for 15-30 minutes before cooking. Pat them dry before seasoning and baking.
5. Use High Heat
- Baking at a higher temperature (400°F) helps the chicken cook quickly while locking in moisture.
Recipe Variations
1. Lemon Garlic Chicken Breast
- Add the juice and zest of 1 lemon along with minced garlic to the seasoning mix for a bright, tangy flavor.
2. Herb-Crusted Chicken
- Add fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the seasoning blend for a fragrant, herb-infused chicken.
3. Spicy Chicken Breast
- For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix. You can also drizzle with hot sauce before serving.
4. Parmesan Crusted Chicken
- Mix 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese with the seasoning mix and sprinkle it over the chicken breasts before baking for a cheesy crust.
5. BBQ Baked Chicken Breast
- Brush the chicken breasts with your favorite BBQ sauce during the last 5 minutes of baking for a smoky, sweet flavor.
FAQs: Classic Baked Chicken Breast
1. How Long Should I Bake Chicken Breasts?
- At 400°F, boneless, skinless chicken breasts will typically take 18-25 minutes to bake, depending on their thickness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
2. How Do I Prevent Chicken from Drying Out?
- To prevent dryness, avoid overbaking. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature, and let the chicken rest before slicing. You can also brine the chicken for extra moisture.
3. Can I Use Bone-In Chicken Breasts?
- Yes! Bone-in chicken breasts will take longer to cook, so adjust the baking time to around 30-35 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
4. Can I Make This Chicken Ahead of Time?
- Yes! You can bake the chicken breasts ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
5. What Can I Serve with Baked Chicken Breast?
- This chicken pairs well with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad
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