Simple Juicy Baked Chicken Breast

Juicy baked chicken breast served with vegetables on a plate.

A straightforward recipe for juicy, tender baked chicken breast, perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 22

Total Time 32

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings servings

Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients

Main ingredients

2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6–8 ounces each)
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil adds moisture and richness
to taste Salt coarse sea salt preferred for texture
to taste Freshly ground black pepper enhances flavor balance
1 pinch garlic powder or smoked paprika (optional) adds depth of flavor

Instructions

Preparation

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and allow it to properly heat up.
Pat the chicken breasts dry using paper towels.
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil with your salt, pepper, and the optional garlic powder or smoked paprika. Mix until evenly distributed.
Brush or rub the olive oil mixture evenly over both chicken breasts.
Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish or a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching.

Cooking

Bake the chicken uncovered for 18-22 minutes.
Start checking the internal temperature at 18 minutes with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part, looking for 160°F (71°C).
Once cooked, take the chicken out of the oven and tent it loosely with foil. Allow to rest for 5-7 minutes.
Slice the chicken against the grain and serve warm.

Notes

Juicy baked chicken can be added to salads, breakfast scrambles, or used in sandwiches. Use a meat thermometer for accurate doneness and allow the chicken to come to room temperature before baking.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 300kcalProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 600mg

Keyword baked chicken, comfort food, easy chicken recipe, Juicy Chicken Breast, quick dinner

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