Description
These baked chicken breasts are juicy and flavorful, featuring a simple blend of spices. Perfect for a quick dinner or healthy meal, they are easy to prepare and satisfying for the whole family.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness
- 1 tablespoon melted 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
Instructions
- If the chicken breasts are pre-brined, skip brining. In a large bowl, mix 2 cups of lukewarm water with 1/4 cup kosher salt until mostly dissolved. Add 2 cups of cold water. Soak the chicken for 15 minutes or refrigerate for up to 6 hours. Rinse and pat dry after brining.
- Preheat the oven to 450°F.
- Arrange the chicken in a large baking dish. Brush both sides with melted butter or olive oil. In a bowl, mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Season the chicken on both sides with the mixture.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes until no longer pink, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Use a thermometer for accuracy. For a crispy top, broil for the final 3-5 minutes, monitoring closely to prevent burning.
- Remove from the oven, transfer to a plate, and tent loosely with aluminum foil. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Serve warm.
Notes
Adjust cooking time based on chicken thickness for best results.
Ensure to use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 50g
- Cholesterol: 130mg