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Juicy Baked Chicken Breasts

This baked chicken recipe focuses on simple techniques like seasoning, proper baking, and resting to achieve tender, juicy meat with a crispy exterior. Main ingredients include chicken breasts, olive oil, and flavorful seasonings, resulting in a versatile dish that can be customized with different herbs and spices. The final dish boasts a golden crust and moist interior, perfect for a satisfying meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 220
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces chicken breasts skinless, boneless
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground preferred
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or herbs like thyme or oregano
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice optional, for brightness
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder or fresh minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon seasoning blend cumin, chili powder, Italian herbs, or your favorite

Equipment

  • Baking dish or wire rack
  • Meat thermometer
  • Paper towels
  • Kitchen tongs

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) and line a baking dish or set a wire rack over a baking sheet.
  2. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, helping them crisp up nicely.
  3. Drizzle olive oil over each piece, rubbing it evenly to coat the surface; this promotes crispiness and helps seasonings stick.
  4. Season generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and your chosen seasoning blend, ensuring even coverage on all sides.
  5. Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the wire rack or in the baking dish, spaced slightly apart for even cooking.
  6. Bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F). Check with a meat thermometer for accuracy.
  7. Halfway through baking, drizzle the chicken with lemon juice or baste with its juices for extra moisture and flavor.
  8. Once done, remove the chicken from the oven, and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute for maximum juiciness.
  9. Slice against the grain with a sharp knife, revealing a tender, moist interior with a crispy, golden exterior.
  10. Serve the juicy baked chicken with your favorite sides and enjoy the satisfying, flavorful bites.