Background and History
Baked chicken breasts are a staple in many households due to their versatility, ease of preparation, and nutritional benefits. This method of cooking chicken has been popular for decades, especially in Western cuisine, as it allows the meat to remain moist while achieving a flavorful exterior. Baked chicken breasts are often recommended in healthy eating plans due to their high protein content and low fat levels.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Optional: Fresh herbs (such as rosemary or thyme) for garnish
Serves
- 4 people
Time
- Preparation: 10 minutes
- Cooking: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Cooking Time
- Baking: 25-30 minutes
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
Seasoning the Chicken
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, mix the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- Drizzle olive oil over the chicken breasts, then rub the spice mixture evenly on both sides of each breast.
Baking
- Place the chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Optional:For extra flavor, you can add a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme on top of each chicken breast before baking.
Resting
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken more tender.
Nutrition Facts (per serving, based on 4 servings)
- Calories: 250-300
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
Notes
- For added moisture, you can brine the chicken breasts in a saltwater solution for 15-30 minutes before seasoning and baking.
- Customize the seasoning mix to your taste by adding spices like cumin, chili powder, or Italian seasoning.
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables, salad, or quinoa for a balanced meal.
Allergy Warning
- This recipe contains no common allergens. However, always check the labels of your spices and other ingredients to ensure they are free from any potential allergens.
How do you bake chicken breast so they don’t dry out?
To prevent chicken breasts from drying out, bake them at a high temperature (400°F or 200°C) for a shorter time and ensure they are well-coated with olive oil. Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking also helps keep it moist.
How to cook chicken breasts so they are moist and tender?
Cook chicken breasts by baking at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, and use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Brining the chicken breasts before baking can also add moisture and enhance tenderness.
How many minutes bake chicken breast?
Bake chicken breasts for 25-30 minutes at 400°F (200°C), depending on their size and thickness.
Should I cover chicken breast when baking in the oven?
You don’t need to cover chicken breasts when baking, as leaving them uncovered allows them to brown nicely. However, if you prefer, you can cover them with foil for the first part of baking to retain moisture, then uncover them for the last 10 minutes to let them brown.
How do you keep chicken breast moist when roasting?
Keep chicken breasts moist when roasting by coating them in olive oil, seasoning well, and baking at a high temperature for a shorter period. Adding a bit of chicken broth or water to the baking dish can also help keep them moist.
What is the best temperature to bake chicken?
The best temperature to bake chicken is 400°F (200°C), which ensures they cook through quickly and remain juicy.
Which mode is best for chicken in oven?
The best mode for baking chicken in the oven is the regular bake setting. Convection bake can also be used for even cooking, but you may need to reduce the temperature slightly and check for doneness earlier.
How to know if chicken breast is cooked?
Check if chicken breast is cooked by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). The juices should run clear, and the meat should be white throughout with no pinkness.
Is chicken done at 165 or 180?
Chicken is safely cooked and done at 165°F (74°C). This temperature ensures that any harmful bacteria are killed while keeping the meat juicy.
What is the best temperature for chicken breast?
The best temperature for chicken breast is 165°F (74°C), as measured with a meat thermometer. This ensures the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat while retaining its moisture.
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