Baked chicken breast is a versatile and healthy protein that can be enjoyed in countless ways. With the right preparation, it can be tender, flavorful, and satisfying. In this guide, we’ll share a simple yet delicious recipe for baked chicken breast that’s perfect for any weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish. Drizzle them with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Rub the seasonings evenly over the chicken.
- Bake the chicken: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). To check the doneness, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken.
- Rest and serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This will help the juices redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.
Tips for Juicy Baked Chicken Breast:
- Don’t overcook: Chicken breasts can dry out easily if overcooked. Check the internal temperature regularly to ensure it’s cooked through without being dry.
- Brine for added flavor and moisture: Soaking the chicken breasts in a saltwater brine for 30 minutes to an hour before cooking can help them retain moisture and absorb flavor.
- Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to customize the seasoning blend to your taste. Try adding other spices like cayenne pepper, cumin, or dried herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- Serve with your favorite sides: Baked chicken breasts pair well with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, quinoa, brown rice, or a salad.
Conclusion
Baked chicken breast is a simple yet delicious protein that can be enjoyed in countless ways. By following these tips and experimenting with different seasonings, you can create a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Relevant Links:
- Food Network: https://www.foodnetwork.com/
- Allrecipes: https://www.allrecipes.com/
- Betty Crocker: https://www.bettycrocker.com/