Tired of dry, bland chicken? You’re not alone! Many home cooks struggle to achieve that consistently juicy, flavorful result they crave. But what if we told you that perfectly baked chicken is simpler than you think? This recipe delivers unbelievably tender, moist poultry every time. It’s a customizable, delicious method that will elevate your weeknight meals. Master this foolproof baked chicken recipe effortlessly and enjoy succulent results!
Why You’ll Love This Baked Chicken
- This method guarantees wonderfully juicy and tender baked chicken.
- Enjoy a simple 5-step preparation, making dinner stress-free.
- It’s incredibly versatile, perfect for any meal or cuisine.
- You only need a few minimal ingredients to create amazing flavor.
- This recipe offers a quick and easy weeknight dinner solution for busy schedules.
Ingredients
To create this incredible baked chicken dish, you only need a handful of accessible ingredients. This simple combination ensures maximum flavor with minimal fuss. Always start with quality ingredients for the best results in your baked chicken.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Pounding them to an even thickness is key for uniform cooking.
- 1 tablespoon melted butter or olive oil: This adds rich flavor and helps the chicken brown beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for the brining process and seasoning your poultry.
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly-ground black pepper: Provides a subtle hint of spice and aroma.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: An aromatic base that enhances the overall taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Delivers a lovely color and a delicious smoky depth.
Notes & Substitutions
- Chicken: If using pre-brined chicken (check the label!), reduce or skip the brining step.
- Fat: Avocado oil or ghee are excellent healthy alternatives to butter or olive oil.
- Seasonings: Feel free to experiment with your favorite spice blends, like Italian or Cajun.
- Salt: If using table salt, reduce the amount by about half as it is finer and more concentrated.
Equipment
Getting perfectly baked chicken requires just a few basic kitchen tools.
- Large mixing bowl: Necessary for the essential brining step.
- 9×13″ Baking dish: A sturdy roasting pan or any oven-safe dish works well.
- Instant-read thermometer: Your best friend for ensuring accurate doneness.
- (Optional) Meat mallet: Helpful for pounding chicken to an even thickness.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare the most delicious baked chicken every time. This straightforward method ensures tender, flavorful results without the guesswork.
(Check the label of your chicken breasts. If they have already been pre-brined in a sodium solution, please skip this step.) Fill a large mixing bowl with 2 cups of lukewarm water and 1/4 cup kosher salt. Stir to combine until most of the salt is absorbed. Add 2 cups of cold water (or a few ice cubes) to lower the temperature of the water so that it is cool to the touch. Add the chicken breasts and let them sit in the mixture to brine for 15 minutes, or you can also cover the bowl and refrigerate for up to 6 hours. Remove the chicken breasts from the brine, rinse them with cold water, then pat them dry with paper towels. This ensures a wonderfully juicy baked chicken.
Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
Place the chicken breasts in a single layer in a large baking dish. Brush both sides evenly with the melted butter or olive oil, turning once. In a separate small bowl, whisk the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until combined. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the chicken on both sides. This prepares your poultry for a flavorful bake.
Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink. Cooking time will depend on the thickness of the chicken breasts, so I recommend using a cooking thermometer to know exactly when the chicken is fully cooked. The thickest part of the breast should measure 165°F. (If you want the chicken to be a little bit browned and crispier on top, you can turn the broiler on high for the final 3-5 minutes of the cooking time and broil the chicken until it is cooked through and golden on top. Keep a close eye on the chicken, however, so that it does not overcook and/or burn.)
According to the USDA, the safe minimum internal temperature for cooked chicken is 165°F to ensure it is safe for consumption.
Once the chicken is cooked, remove the pan from the oven, transfer the chicken to a clean plate, and loosely tent the plate with aluminum foil. Let the chicken rest for at least 5-10 minutes. This resting period is crucial for moist baked chicken.
Serve warm and enjoy your perfectly cooked poultry!
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
- Pounding: Pounding chicken to even thickness is crucial for uniform cooking. This prevents thinner parts from drying out while thicker parts finish.
- Brining: This simple step is the ultimate secret to incredibly moist, flavorful baked chicken. Don’t skip it!
- High Heat: Baking at a high temperature develops a perfect, golden crust on your chicken.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Give your chicken space in the pan to ensure even airflow and proper browning.
- Meat Thermometer: Use an instant-read thermometer to never overcook your chicken again. Aim for 165°F.
- Resting Time: Always let your chicken rest. This locks in all the juices, making it exceptionally tender.
- Crispier Top: For a golden, crispier finish, briefly broil the chicken for the last few minutes.
- Too Dry? Adjust your cooking time next time, and always rely on your meat thermometer to prevent overcooking.
Serving, Storage, & Variations
This versatile baked chicken recipe can easily fit into any meal plan. From quick dinners to meal prep, it’s a go-to choice.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve your succulent chicken alongside vibrant roasted vegetables.
- Slice it thinly and add it to fresh salads or hearty grain bowls.
- Shred the cooked chicken for comforting soups or cheesy casseroles.
- Dice it up for delicious tacos, quick wraps, or flavorful pasta dishes.
- Mix the shredded chicken into creamy dips for a protein-packed snack.
Storage
- Refrigerate: Store leftover baked chicken in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, freeze sliced or diced chicken for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Gently reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of broth to maintain moisture.
Variations
- Spice Blends: Experiment with Italian, Cajun, Taco, Za’atar, or your favorite regional blends.
- Marinades: Use a short, flavorful marinade (30 minutes) before baking for extra depth.
- Sauces: Finish your chicken with lemon-herb, zesty BBQ, or a rich creamy mushroom sauce.
Nutrition
This baked chicken recipe provides a healthy and satisfying meal. Chicken breasts are an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. This dish is naturally low in carbs and can easily fit into various dietary plans.
| Nutrient | Per Serving (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 45g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Carbs | 0g |
You can make it even healthier by using olive oil instead of butter. This is a lean protein choice for any diet.
FAQ
What temperature is best for baking chicken?
Baking at a high temperature, like 450°F (230°C), creates a beautifully browned crust and keeps the inside juicy. This high heat method works wonders for tender baked chicken.
How long does it take to bake chicken breasts?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts typically bake for 15-18 minutes at 450°F, depending on their thickness. Always check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F.
Why should I brine chicken before baking?
Brining infuses the chicken with moisture and seasoning, resulting in a significantly more tender and flavorful baked chicken. It’s a simple step that makes a huge difference.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
No, it’s best to fully thaw chicken breasts before brining and baking. Thawing ensures even cooking and prevents a rubbery texture.
How do I prevent my baked chicken from drying out?
The key steps are brining, pounding to even thickness, using a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking, and allowing the chicken to rest after baking.
Can this recipe be adapted for bone-in chicken?
Yes, bone-in chicken will require a longer cooking time, usually around 25-35 minutes, depending on the cut. Always use a thermometer to confirm it reaches 165°F.
Conclusion
Say goodbye to dry, uninspired meals forever! This simple, foolproof method for baked chicken ensures perfectly juicy, tender, and flavorful results every single time. Its incredible versatility means you can easily adapt it to suit any meal or cuisine. We encourage you to try this recipe tonight and experience the difference yourself. Get ready to enjoy delicious, perfectly cooked chicken that will become a staple in your kitchen!
Perfect Baked Chicken: Juicy, Tender, and Flavorful
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Large baking dish
- Small bowl
- Cooking thermometer
- Aluminum foil
- Clean plate
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 count Boneless, skinless chicken breasts pounded to even thickness
- 1 tablespoon Melted butter or olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
- 0.5 teaspoon Freshly-ground black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon Smoked paprika
Instructions
Preparation
- (Optional) In a large bowl, dissolve 1/4 cup kosher salt in 2 cups lukewarm water, then add 2 cups cold water. Brine chicken breasts for 15 minutes, then rinse and pat dry.
Cooking
- Preheat oven to 450°F.
- Place chicken in a baking dish, brush with melted butter or olive oil, then season evenly with a mixture of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F; optionally broil for the last 3-5 minutes for a browned, crispy top.
- Remove chicken from oven, transfer to a plate, tent with foil, and rest for 5-10 minutes.
Serving
- Serve warm.