Baked Chicken Breasts

Name: Baked Chicken Breasts
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs Chicken breasts; 1 tsp Paprika; 0.5 tsp Garlic powder; 0.25 tsp Salt; 0.25 tsp Black pepper

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

What is a good dinner that’s both satisfying and easy? Is there a recipe that requires hours in the kitchen? What is the recipe for a goodWhat are the best Baked Chicken breastsWhat is a game changer? What is the weeknight equivalent of a Sunday roast? Is it easy to throw together? I swear, even on the busiest of days, I can whip this up and still have time to help with homework. Is staring into the fridge at 5 pm a lifesaver? No inspiration. What is better than pan fried chicken?

What is baked chicken breast?

What is Baked Chicken breasts? Chicken breasts cooked in the oven. What is it like to throw chicken in a pan and hope for the best? Think of it as a blank canvas for flavor. What’s essentially taking simple, lean protein and transforming it into something incredibly delicious? What is the magic of oven heat? Is it about complicated techniques? How do you keep chicken moist and how to build layers of flavor that make it great. Why do I keep coming back for more? Forget dry, bland chicken – this method guarantees tender, succulent results every single time.

Why you will love this recipe?

Why do I love this recipe? What is a beautiful blend of savory herbs, garlic, and lemon that just makes it all the more flavorful? What is the best way to brighten What are some of the best flavor profiles for a coffee? Is this recipe easy? Is it possible to bake a cake in the oven on dreary weeknights? The ingredients are pantry staples, so no last minute grocery runs required. Let’s talk about the budget. Chicken Breasts are a pretty affordable protein, especially if you buy them in bulk when they’re on sale. I always do this when I see a good deal! What I love about this recipe is its versatility. Is it good to slice a chicken for salads, shred it for tacos or serve it whole? Is it the perfect base for countless meals? Is rotisserie chicken worth it? Forget the pre-made options. Have a This is way fresher and tastier, and you control exactly what goes into it! I love roasted broccoli, and it’s perfect with this recipe. What are some of the best home-cooked flavors?

How do I make baked chicken breasts?

Quick Overview

How do I make Baked Chicken breasts? What is the secret to a good marinade? How do I cook a chicken breast? How do I cook perfection in a preheated oven? What is the result? Tender, juicy chicken that’s ready to be enjoyed in countless ways. I promise, even if you’re a beginner cook, you can nail this recipe. What are some good ways to cook chicken? Is there any other way to make a moist cake?

Ingredients

For the Chicken:
* 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each). I like to use organic, but regular works just fine. Make sure they are all about the same thickness so they cook evenly!
* 1 tablespoon Olive Oil, extra virgin. How does olive oil taste?

For the Marinade:
* 2 tablespoons olive oil, extra virgin
* 2 cloves garlic, minced. Freshly minced garlic is a must – it adds so much more flavor than the pre-minced stuff.
Why is 1 tablespoon lemon juice, fresh. Bottled works in a pinch, but fresh is always best. I always have lemons on hand!
* 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs. I like a blend of oregano, basil, and thyme. Is it possible to use a mix of all the ingredients in your kitchen?
* 1/2 teaspoon paprika. Adds a touch of smokiness and color.
* 1/4 teaspoon salt. Or more, to taste. I prefer sea salt for its flavor.
* 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper. Freshly ground is always best!

How do I follow step

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray. How do you prevent chicken from sticking to your hands? I usually use a 9×13 inch baking dish – it’s the perfect size for four Chicken Breasts. Make sure the oven is fully preheated before you put the chicken in; this helps it cook evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

If your chicken breasts are particularly thick, you can pound them to an even thickness using a meat grinder. How do you cook them evenly? Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound until they are about 1 inch thick. Is 1/2 inch thick? Don’t overdo it, you don’t want to flatten them completely! If your chicken breasts are already thin, skip this step.

Step 3: Make the Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together the Olive Oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, Italian herbs, paprika, salt, pepper, and pepper. Set aside. Salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well combined. What is the best marinade for chicken? I sometimes add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra kick.

Step 4: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish. What is the best way to marinate chicken breasts? Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours. The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will be. If you’re short on time, even 15 minutes will make a difference. I find that 30 minutes is the sweet spot. I always make sure the chicken is evenly coated – it makes all the difference.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes. How do I cook a chicken more evenly? Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish, making sure they are not overlapping. Drizzle any remaining marinade over the chicken. Is it safe to bake chicken for 20-25 minutes? Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature of chicken. It’s the best way to ensure the chicken is cooked. I always insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the breast. How long does it take to cook chicken breasts?

Step 6: Rest & Serve

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in even juicier chicken. What should I do if I want to keep my chicken warm? I always let it rest, it makes a huge difference in the final result! Slice the chicken and serve immediately.

What do you serve it with?

What are some of the best baked chicken recipes?What is a quick and easy weeknight dinner?Serve with a side of steamed broccoli and quinoa. What is a healthy meal that can be prepared in minutes?For a Cozy Sunday Supper: Serve with mashed potatoes, green beans, and a warm dinner roll. Comfort food at its finest!

For a Light and Fresh Meal:What is the best way to serve chicken with salad?What is Taco Tuesday? Shred the chicken and use it as a filling for tacos or burritos. Add your favorite toppings, like salsa, guacamole, and sour cream.

For Meal Prep: This chicken is perfect for meal prepping! Cook a batch on Sunday and use it throughout the week in salads, sandwiches, or wraps.

My family loves it when I make this with a side of Roasted Sweet Potatoes – the sweetness of the potatoes complements the savory chicken perfectly. You could also serve it with some grilled asparagus or a simple pasta salad. Honestly, the possibilities are endless! And don’t forget a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving – it really brightens up the flavor!

How do I bake chicken breasts?

What are some extra tips for chicken? Breast perfection every single time!Don’t overcook it:What is the biggest mistake people make when cooking chicken breasts? Overcooked chicken is dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).Pound It Out:If you are cooking chicken breasts in batches, make sure you cook them to an even thickness. This will help them cook more evenly and prevent them from sticking to the bone. How do I prevent my skin from dryingMarinate It: Marinating the chicken adds flavor and helps to keep it moist. Even a short 30-minute marinade will make a difference.

Don’t Crowd the Pan: Make sure the chicken breasts are not overlapping in the baking dish. This will prevent them from cooking evenly.

Let It Rest: Letting the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in even juicier chicken.

Spice It Up: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices in the marinade. Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or some smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.

I learned the hard way that overcooking chicken is the enemy! Now I always use a meat thermometer and it makes all the difference. And trust me, the marinade is worth the extra effort – it really takes the flavor to the next level. I’ve also found that using a good quality Olive Oil makes a difference. It’s a simple thing, but it really elevates the flavor of the dish.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Room Temperature: I wouldn’t recommend leaving cooked chicken at room temperature for more than two hours.

Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover baked chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the chicken has cooled completely before storing it. I always try to use it within 2-3 days for the best quality.

Freezer Instructions: You can also freeze cooked chicken breasts for longer storage. Wrap each breast individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen chicken breasts will last for up to 2-3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Glaze Timing Advice: N/A – no glaze in this recipe!

When reheating, I prefer to use the oven or a skillet to keep the chicken from drying out. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook it. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to the container when reheating to help keep the chicken moist. I’ve found that reheating it in the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F) works best.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use bone-in chicken breasts?

Yes, you can! Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Bone-in chicken breasts will take longer to cook than boneless ones. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Can I make this with chicken thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great substitute for chicken breasts. They tend to be more flavorful and stay juicier than chicken breasts. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

What if I don’t have Italian herbs?

No problem! You can use any combination of dried herbs that you like. Oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary, and sage are all great options. You can also use a pre-made herb blend, like Herbs de Provence.

Can I add vegetables to the baking dish?

Yes, definitely! Add your favorite vegetables to the baking dish alongside the chicken. Broccoli, carrots, potatoes, and asparagus are all great options. Just be sure to cut the vegetables into bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly. You may need to add a little extra olive oil to the pan.

Can I grill these chicken breasts instead of baking them?

Yes, you can! Preheat your grill to medium heat and grill the chicken breasts for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – my go-to recipe for juicy, flavorful baked chicken breasts! I truly believe this recipe is a total game-changer for busy weeknights. It’s easy, versatile, and always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s a healthy and delicious way to get your protein in. If you’re looking for more easy and delicious recipes, be sure to check out my other chicken recipes. And if you try this recipe, please let me know how it turns out in the comments below! I love hearing from you all. Happy cooking, and can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Don’t forget to rate this recipe and share it with your friends! I’d love to see your creations, so tag me on social media when you make it!