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Baked Chicken Breasts Recipe

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4 from 23 reviews

This recipe for Baked Chicken Breasts offers a simple, flavorful, and healthy way to prepare tender and juicy chicken using basic pantry spices. The chicken breasts are seasoned with a blend of kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika, then baked to perfection at a high temperature for a quick, easy meal that pairs well with a variety of sides.

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 4 medium size breasts)

Seasonings and Oil

  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Chicken: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture, then pound them to an even thickness of about 1 inch. This ensures even cooking throughout.
  2. Coat and Arrange Chicken: Pour the olive oil into a 13×9-inch baking dish and lightly coat the chicken breasts in the oil. Arrange the breasts side by side in the dish, alternating direction so they fit without overlapping. Use a baking dish that can withstand high heat.
  3. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, whisk together kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Sprinkle this seasoning mix evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts, then rub it in with your hands to evenly distribute the flavors.
  4. Bake the Chicken: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake the chicken for 15 to 20 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the breast; it should register 160°F. Thicker breasts may require additional cooking time.
  5. Rest and Serve: Tent the chicken loosely with foil and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. During this time, the internal temperature will rise to the safe serving temperature of 165°F. Slice the chicken against the grain and serve topped with the pan juices for added flavor.

Notes

  • Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken evenly.
  • Resting the chicken after baking ensures juicier meat and allows the temperature to reach a safe level.
  • Adjust seasoning quantities according to taste preferences.
  • Make sure to use an oven-safe baking dish to avoid damage at high temperature.
  • For thicker breasts, increase baking time slightly and monitor temperature carefully.