Baked chicken breasts are a staple in many households, offering a delightful balance of juicy meat and crispy skin. This simple dish transforms chicken into a succulent entrée with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights or a lovely gathering with friends. With just a handful of ingredients, you can enjoy a comforting meal that feels both homey and slightly gourmet. Trust me; these baked chicken breasts will quickly become a favorite in your cooking repertoire.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Baked Chicken Breasts
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Baked Chicken Breasts

I remember the first time I made baked chicken breasts; I was in college, juggling classes and part-time work, craving something warm yet easy to prepare. I was amazed at how a few simple spices and some butter could elevate plain chicken to something extraordinary. The aroma that wafted through my small kitchen made my mouth water, and it was hard to believe I had created such a delicious dish. If you’re looking for an easy, budget-friendly option that will impress, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s get started on a recipe that guarantees tasty results every time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Ready in just about 55 minutes (20 minutes prep, 35 minutes cooking) – perfect for a busy weeknight!
Irresistible Flavor: Tender, juicy chicken infused with savory spices that dance on your palate.
Eye-Catching Appeal: Beautifully browned and crisp on the outside, making it a stunning centerpiece for any meal.
Flexible Serving: Ideal for quick dinners, lunch meal prep, or even sliced atop salads.
Diet-Friendly Options: Naturally gluten-free and low-carb; easily adjust with your favorite seasonings or marinades.

Ingredients You’ll Need

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: Look for fresh, high-quality chicken for the best flavor. If needed, you can substitute with thighs, though cooking times may vary.
1 tablespoon melted butter or olive oil: This adds richness to the recipe. Olive oil is a great heart-healthy option, while butter provides that classic flavor.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: Kosher salt enhances the chicken’s natural flavor. If using table salt, reduce the amount slightly as it’s more concentrated.
1/2 teaspoon freshly-ground black pepper: Fresh ground pepper offers a robust spice that elevates the overall taste—skip pre-ground when possible.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a savory, aromatic touch. Fresh garlic can work too; just adjust the amount to your liking.
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: This spicy-sweet seasoning gives the chicken a beautiful color and a subtle smokiness. Regular paprika is a fine substitute if needed.

How to Make Baked Chicken Breasts

Brine (Optional): If your chicken hasn’t been pre-brined, begin by filling a large mixing bowl with 2 cups of lukewarm water and 1/4 cup kosher salt. Stir until the salt dissolves, then add 2 cups of cold water. Soak the chicken breasts in this solution for 15 minutes, or if you have more time, cover and refrigerate for up to 6 hours. This step makes the chicken super juicy! Once ready, rinse each breast under cold water and dry thoroughly with paper towels.

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 450°F. This high temperature helps develop a nice golden exterior while keeping the inside tender.

Arrange chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large baking dish, ensuring they lie flat in a single layer. Pour 1 tablespoon of melted butter (or olive oil) over them, making sure to brush both sides generously.

Season: In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon freshly-ground black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts for a flavorful punch.

Bake: Put the baking dish in the oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes. Check your chicken’s doneness using a cooking thermometer; the thickest part should reach 165°F, indicating it’s perfectly cooked. If you want an extra crispy top, broil on high for the last 3-5 minutes, but keep a close watch to avoid burning.

Rest the chicken: When cooked, remove the pan from the oven, transfer the chicken to a clean plate, and tent loosely with aluminum foil. Letting it rest for 5-10 minutes ensures all those juicy flavors redistribute back into the meat.

Serve: Slice, serve warm, and enjoy your delicious homemade baked chicken breasts! Pair them with your favorite sides for a complete meal.

Storing & Reheating

To store, place the cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the baked chicken breasts for up to 3 months. When reheating, simply microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through at 350°F in the oven. Do note that while freezing preserves the chicken’s safety, the texture may change slightly upon reheating, but a quick drizzle of olive oil can help refresh it.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Ensure an even cook: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness, which promotes uniform cooking.
Watch for moisture: If the chicken appears too dry while cooking, a splash of chicken broth can help retain moisture.
Don’t skip the resting: Resting the chicken post-baking is crucial to locking in juices, so be patient!
Adjust spice levels: Feel free to play with the spices—add chili powder for heat or Italian herbs for a different flavor profile.
Use a meat thermometer: Investing in a reliable cooking thermometer ensures consistently perfectly cooked chicken.

Delicious baked chicken breasts are a wonderful addition to any meal, and this recipe not only simplifies the process but also guarantees flavor and tenderness. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different spices or marinades—let your culinary creativity shine!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, but it’s important to thaw the chicken fully before baking for even cooking. Ideally, thaw in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave.

What sides pair well with baked chicken breasts?

Baked chicken pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad. You can also serve it with rice or quinoa for a hearty meal.

How can I tell if my chicken breasts are done?

Using a cooking thermometer is best; the thickest part should reach 165°F. Alternatively, cut into the chicken to ensure there is no pink remaining.

Can I marinate the chicken in advance?

Absolutely! You can marinate your chicken in your favorite mixture up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to pat it dry before seasoning and cooking for the best results.

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Baked Chicken Breasts

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Author: Anna
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Dishes
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

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Description

This Baked Chicken Breasts recipe is all about simple preparations and delightful flavors. With juicy boneless chicken breasts, a hint of garlic, and smoky paprika, it’s perfect for quick dinners or healthy meals. Enjoy a comforting dish that satisfies your cravings without the fuss!

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

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Instructions

Fill a large mixing bowl with 2 cups lukewarm water and 1/4 cup kosher salt; stir until most of the salt is absorbed. Add 2 cups of cold water and stir.
Soak the chicken breasts in the saltwater mixture for 15 minutes, or refrigerate for up to 6 hours. Rinse with cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
Preheat the oven to 450°F.
Place chicken in a baking dish and brush both sides with melted butter or olive oil. Combine salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika in a bowl, then sprinkle evenly over the chicken.
Bake chicken for 15-18 minutes, until fully cooked (165°F in the thickest part). For a crispy top, use the broiler for the last 3-5 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
Once cooked, remove from the oven, transfer chicken to a plate, and tent loosely with aluminum foil. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For best results, use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken is fully cooked.
If your chicken has been pre-brined, skip the brining step to prevent oversalting.
Broiling at the end is optional but can enhance the texture and flavor.