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.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
Calories: 284
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 1012mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 0g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 53g
Cholesterol: 144mg