Description

Welcome, food enthusiasts! Today, we’ll dive into a delightful recipe for Baked Chicken Breasts that guarantees juicy, tender results every time. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned cook looking for a reliable go-to chicken recipe, this is the ultimate guide for perfecting baked chicken. Let’s get started and bring a burst of flavor to your table with this easy-to-follow recipe.

Ingredients

Scale

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up a batch of tender and flavorful Baked Chicken Breasts:

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

Optional Substitutions:

For a dairy-free option, use olive oil instead of butter.
If you’re watching your sodium intake, opt for low-sodium kosher salt.
For added heat, replace smoked paprika with cayenne pepper.

Instructions

Step 1: Brine the Chicken

Fill a large bowl with 1 quart of warm water and 1/4 cup kosher salt. Stir until the salt is mostly dissolved.
Add the chicken breasts to the brine and let them sit for 15 minutes. For a deeper flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate for up to 6 hours.
Remove the chicken from the brine, rinse with cold water, and pat dry with paper towels.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 450°F. This high heat will ensure that your chicken cooks quickly and remains juicy.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a single layer in a baking dish. Brush both sides with melted butter or olive oil.
In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Sprinkle the seasoning evenly on both sides of the chicken.

Step 4: Bake

Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the thickest part of the breast reaches 165°F. If you want the top to be a bit crisper, switch on the broiler for the final 3-5 minutes.

Step 5: Let it Rest

Transfer the chicken to a clean plate, cover loosely with foil, and let it rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.

Notes

Use a meat thermometer: To avoid overcooking, always check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should read 165°F.
Let the chicken rest: This step is crucial for retaining moisture. Skipping it can result in a drier texture.
Customize your seasoning: Feel free to experiment with Italian herbs, lemon zest, or chili flakes.