Description
These Baked Chicken Breasts are a simple yet delicious dish. With juicy chicken, a flavorful spice mix, and easy preparation, they’re perfect for a quick family dinner.
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
Instructions
- If the chicken breasts are pre-brined, skip the brining step. Combine 2 cups lukewarm water and 1/4 cup kosher salt in a large bowl until the salt is mostly dissolved. Add 2 cups of cold water or ice to cool it down. Submerge chicken breasts in the brine for 15 minutes or refrigerate for up to 6 hours. Rinse the chicken with cold water and pat dry.
- Preheat the oven to 450°F.
- Arrange chicken breasts in a large baking dish in a single layer. Brush both sides with melted butter or olive oil. In a small bowl, mix together salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Sprinkle this seasoning evenly on both sides of the chicken.
- Bake the chicken for 15-18 minutes, or until fully cooked and no longer pink, using a thermometer to check that it has reached 165°F in the thickest part. For a crispy top, broil for 3-5 minutes at the end, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Remove the baking dish from the oven, transfer the chicken to a clean plate, and cover loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in advance.
Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.
This dish goes well with a side of vegetables or rice.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 49g
- Cholesterol: 130mg