Perfectly Baked Chicken Breasts Juicy Foolproof
- Recipe Introduction
- Why This Baked Chicken Breast Recipe Rocks
- The Secret to Keeping It Juicy
- Your Ingredient Arsenal
- Step-by-Step: Making It Happen
- Ingredients & Equipment for Juicy Baked Chicken Breast
- Perfectly Baked Chicken Breasts: Juicy, Flavorful, and Foolproof
- Recipe Notes for Perfectly Juicy Baked Chicken Breast
- Frequently Asked Questions
- 📝 Recipe Card
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Ever bite into a chicken breast and think, "Oh dear, this is drier than the Sahara?" Been there! But fear not, my friend.
This juicy baked chicken breast recipe is here to change everything. Get ready for chicken that's actually moist and packed with flavour.
Brief Overview
This recipe is a twist on a classic, taking a simple cut of meat and transforming it into something special.
Originally a staple in many home kitchens, it’s evolved. This easy baked chicken breast is a simple method to enjoy chicken, it's dead easy to make and only takes around 35 minutes.
This recipe will give you about 4 portions, perfect for a small family or meal prepping.
Main Benefits
What's the best thing about this oven baked chicken breast ? Its lean protein. The recipe provides a nutritious option that is low on carbs and high on flavour.
This recipe is perfect for a mid-week meal when you need something quick, tasty and healthy to eat. I like to make this because it's so much better than the dry stuff.
Why This Baked Chicken Breast Recipe Rocks
Okay, so you might be thinking, "Another baked chicken breast recipe ? What's so special about this one?" Honestly, it's all about the technique.
We're not just throwing chicken in the oven and hoping for the best. We're gonna use a simple spice rub.
Get ready for a tender chicken breast recipe .
Think of this as your new go-to method for how to bake chicken breast perfectly every single time. It's foolproof, I promise.
The method involves a few keys: precise baking, knowing the exact baked chicken breast temperature , and the resting process to keep all those juices where they belong.
The Secret to Keeping It Juicy
We've all been there. Dry, tough chicken. Urgh. The secret? Don't overcook it. A meat thermometer is your new best friend.
Aim for 165° F ( 74° C) . Another key? Letting it rest. A few minutes of rest after baking makes all the difference.
The best way to bake chicken breast also involves a little bit of fat. We're using olive oil to help keep it moist and add flavour.
You can make a fantastic baked chicken breast marinade too.
Your Ingredient Arsenal
Here's what you need for this masterpiece of a chicken breast recipe :
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian herbs
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Simple, right? You probably already have most of this in your cupboard.
step-by-step: Making It Happen
Preheat your oven to 400° F ( 200° C) . Then, get your chicken ready by patting it dry with paper towels.
This helps with the browning. Mix all your spices in a bowl. Then rub the oil onto both sides of each chicken breast.
After this, coat each breast with your mix of spices.
Now, place your chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 25- 30 minutes. Use a thermometer to verify. Rest before you slice it and serve!
Ingredients & Equipment for Juicy Baked Chicken Breast
Alright, mates! Let's chat ingredients. Getting this part right is key to the best way to bake chicken breast . Trust me, I've had my share of dry chicken fails.
Honestly, a good baked chicken breast recipe starts with top-notch ingredients.
Main Ingredients: Keep it Real
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces/170g each): Uniform thickness is your friend here!
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Extra virgin is the way to go.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Don't be shy!
- 1 teaspoon paprika (sweet or smoked): I love smoked for that extra oomph.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, thyme, and basil): Get a good quality brand. It matters.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Kosher salt is my go-to.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground if you can!
Quality, quality, quality. If you're aiming for a super juicy chicken breast , the chicken itself has to be good.
Look for breasts that are pink and plump. Avoid anything pale or with an off smell. That's a no-go.
Seasoning Notes: Spice it Up!
This spice combo is my secret weapon. Garlic, paprika, and Italian herbs? Oh my gosh, heaven!
- Essential spice combinations : Garlic powder, smoked paprika, and Italian herbs. Game changer!
- Flavor enhancers and aromatics : A little lemon zest adds zing.
- Quick substitution options : No Italian herbs? Use a poultry blend. Easy peasy.
Experiment! Don't be afraid to tweak it to your liking. Maybe a pinch of cayenne for some heat? You know?
Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple
No need for fancy gadgets here! The essential tools only.
- Baking sheet: Any will do, just make sure it's clean.
- Parchment paper or aluminum foil (optional, for easier cleanup): Trust me, you'll thank me later.
- Small mixing bowl: For your spice rub.
- Meat thermometer: This is non-negotiable for guaranteeing a tender chicken breast recipe! . Get one.
Honestly, you probably have everything you need already. No need to splash out on anything expensive. A common household alternative can be a normal plate, or bowl.
Remember, getting these oven baked chicken breast tips right makes all the difference when you wanna know how to bake chicken breast ! Happy cooking! Using the right equipment is what makes the easy baked chicken breast recipe, easy.
Perfectly Baked Chicken Breasts: Juicy, Flavorful, and Foolproof
Honestly, who doesn't love a good chicken breast? But let's be real, dry, rubbery chicken is a crime against food.
This baked chicken breast recipe is designed to give you juicy chicken breast every single time. We're talking perfect for salads, sandwiches, or just a simple weeknight dinner.
Say goodbye to boring chicken and hello to flavour!
Prep Steps: Get Your Ducks in a Row
Before we even think about turning on the oven, let's get organised. It's all about that mise en place , darling!
- Essential mise en place: Grab your chicken, spices, oil, and baking sheet. Everything within easy reach makes cooking a breeze.
- Time saving organization tips: Mix your spices beforehand. It saves you faffing about when the oven is hot and ready.
- Safety reminders: Wash your hands before and after handling raw chicken. It's basic hygiene, but essential !
step-by-step to Juicy Perfection
Ready to learn how to bake chicken breast like a pro? Follow these super simple steps!
- Preheat Oven: Pop your oven on to 400° F ( 200° C) .
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Less mess is always a win!
- Prep Chicken: Pat your chicken breast dry with paper towels. Seriously, don't skip this.
- Brush with Oil: Give both sides of the chicken a good brush with olive oil.
- Mix Seasoning: In a bowl, mix garlic powder, paprika, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Season Chicken: Sprinkle the seasoning all over the chicken. Press it on so it sticks.
- Bake: Place the chicken on the baking sheet. Bake for 25- 30 minutes , until it reaches 165° F ( 74° C) .
- Rest: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Pro Tips for Amazing Chicken
Want to take your oven baked chicken breast to the next level? I got you covered.
- Don't Overcook: Overcooked chicken is the enemy. Use a meat thermometer!
- Pound Thick Breasts: If your chicken is super thick, flatten it a bit. It'll cook more evenly. This ensures you get a tender chicken breast recipe .
- Brine for Extra Juiciness: For the best way to bake chicken breast , try a brine. Soak the chicken in saltwater for 30 minutes before cooking. Trust me, it's a game changer.
The secret to juicy baked chicken breast isn't some fancy technique. It's all about paying attention to detail. Don't be scared to experiment with different baked chicken breast marinade recipes to find your favourite! There's a whole world of chicken breast recipes out there.
Now go on, get baking!
Recipe Notes for Perfectly Juicy Baked Chicken Breast
Alright, so you're about to make some seriously good juicy chicken breast . Before you dive in, let's chat about a few extra bits and bobs to make sure it's a total success.
Honestly, these are the things I wish I knew when I first started figuring out how to bake chicken breast !
Serving Suggestions: Let's Plate This Up!
Presentation matters, right? For a simple but elegant dish, slice the oven baked chicken breast and fan it out on a plate.
Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze if you want to look fancy. I sometimes toss it over a vibrant green salad with some crumbled feta.
So yum. Alternatively, for sides, roast some asparagus alongside the chicken or whip up some creamy mashed potatoes. A crisp glass of white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc) is a great shout too!
Storage Tips: Keep That Juicy Chicken Breast Fresh
Got leftovers? No problem! Pop that easy baked chicken breast into an airtight container and into the fridge. It will be good for 3-4 days.
For freezing, let the baked chicken breast cool completely first. Then, wrap each breast individually in cling film before popping them into a freezer bag.
It'll keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, defrost overnight in the fridge and then warm through in the oven at 350° F ( 175° C) until heated through.
Or microwave if you're short on time!
Variations: Mix It Up A Bit!
Fancy a change? Try adding lemon zest and fresh thyme to the spice rub for a citrusy kick. A little pinch of chilli flakes for some heat is another good shout.
For dietary tweaks, remember the baked chicken breast recipe is naturally gluten-free. It's also perfect for low-carb diets. Simple! You can also swap out the Italian herbs for dried rosemary or oregano for a slightly different flavour profile.
Nutrition Basics: What You're Getting
Each serving clocks in at roughly 250 calories. You are also packing a whopping 40g of protein! Plus, it's fairly low in fat.
This makes it a great, healthy meal option. Protein is awesome for feeling full and for building muscle, so dig in!
So, there you have it. A few extra tips to make your best way to bake chicken breast experience even better.
I faced one issue when I didn't rest the chicken and it was very dry. Remember, baking is a breeze.
You're now armed with all the knowledge you need to create a tender chicken breast recipe that everyone will love.
Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make sure my baked chicken breast isn't dry? No one wants a chicken breast as dry as the Sahara!
Nobody wants that! To get a juicy baked chicken breast, don't overcook it. Use a meat thermometer and take it out of the oven when it reaches 165°F (74°C). Letting it rest for 5 minutes before slicing also helps redistribute the juices, guaranteeing moistness fit for a Queen!
What's the best temperature and time to bake a juicy baked chicken breast? I always seem to overcook it.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for the best results. Bake your chicken breasts for about 25-30 minutes, but the most important thing is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the breast, and remove the chicken when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
That way you'll get the perfect juicy baked chicken breast every time!
Can I use this recipe with bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts?
You can, but the cooking time will need to be adjusted. Bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts will take longer to cook expect around 35-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
The skin will crisp up beautifully, but remember to account for the additional fat content in your nutritional calculations. Think of it as your Sunday Roast, but with chicken!
How long can I store leftover baked chicken breast?
Leftover baked chicken breast can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before refrigerating. You can use it in salads, sandwiches, or reheat it gently in the oven or microwave, perhaps with a bit of gravy to keep it moist.
What are some tasty variations I can try with this juicy baked chicken breast recipe?
For a zesty twist, try adding lemon zest and fresh rosemary to the spice rub. If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper. You could also marinate the chicken in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, and garlic before baking. Get creative and make it your own - Bob's Your Uncle!
Is this recipe healthy? What's the nutritional information for baked chicken breast?
Absolutely! Baked chicken breast is a great source of lean protein, making it a healthy choice. One serving (approximately 6 ounces) contains roughly 250 calories, 40g of protein, 8g of fat, and 2g of carbohydrates. These values can vary depending on the size of the chicken breast and any added ingredients.
However, it aligns well with most nutritional diets.
Perfectly Baked Chicken Breasts Juicy Foolproof
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 250 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 8g |
| Fiber | 2g |
