Certainly! Here’s the Baked Chicken Breasts recipe , which uses a simple 5-step method to ensure juicy and flavorful chicken breasts.
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups water (for brining)
- 3 tablespoons kosher salt (for brining)
- 1–2 tablespoons melted butter or olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions:
- Brine: In a large bowl, combine 4 cups of lukewarm water and three tablespoons of kosher salt, stirring until the salt is mostly dissolved. Add the chicken breasts to the brine and let them sit for 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can cover the bowl and refrigerate for up to 6 hours. After brining, remove the chicken breasts, rinse them under cold water, and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Brush: Place the chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Brush both sides of each breast with melted butter or olive oil.
- Rub: In a small bowl, mix the smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning mix evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
- Roast: Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 15–18 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken breasts.
- Rest: Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5–10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices, ensuring the chicken remains moist and tender.
Enjoy your meal!
