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Freshly cooked chicken breast with lemon, herbs, and vegetables in a white bowl.

Juicy Baked Chicken Breast

Smiling woman with glasses and dark hair, professional portrait for Baked Bree website.Diane Goodman
5 from 1 vote
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Rest Time 10 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course chicken
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 23 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness
  • 1 tablespoon melted unsalted 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
  • Optional: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for garnish
  • 1/4 cup Kosher salt for brining
  • 1 quart warm water for brining

Instructions
 

  • Prep for Brining: (If your chicken is pre-brined, skip to step 2.) In a large bowl, dissolve 1/4 cup kosher salt in 1 quart of warm water. Submerge the chicken breasts for 15 minutes to brine. If you're planning ahead, you can cover and refrigerate for up to 6 hours. After brining, rinse the chicken with cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
    Raw chicken thighs in a plastic container ready for cooking or baking.
  • Set your oven to a hot 450°F and get out a large baking dish ready for the chicken.
    Plain white oval ceramic serving platter, elegant dinnerware for snacks or main courses.
  • Brush the chicken with melted butter or olive oil (this helps give a golden finish). Mix the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika in a bowl, then sprinkle over the chicken breasts evenly.y.
    Fresh raw chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper on a white platter.
  • Bake the chicken for 16-18 minutes, or until the internal temperature hits 165°F. If you like a crispier top, broil on high for the last few minutes.
    Juicy baked chicken breasts seasoned with spices in a white baking dish.
  • Once done, let the chicken rest on a plate, tented with foil for 5 minutes then serve.

Nutrition

Calories: 23kcalCarbohydrates: 0.4gProtein: 0.2gFat: 2gSaturated Fat: 0.4gSodium: 388mgFiber: 0.1g
Keyword Juicy Baked Chicken Breast
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