Description
These Baked Chicken Breasts are flavorful and easy to prepare. Juicy chicken seasoned with spices makes for a delightful quick dinner or healthy meal option.
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
- In a large bowl, combine 2 cups lukewarm water with 1/4 cup kosher salt until most salt is dissolved.
- Add 2 cups cold water or ice cubes to cool down the mixture and ensure it's touchably cool.
- Submerge chicken breasts in the brine for 15 minutes, or refrigerate for up to 6 hours. Rinse with cold water and pat dry afterward.
- Preheat your oven to 450°F.
- Arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer in a baking dish. Brush both sides with melted butter or olive oil.
- In a small bowl, mix the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Season the chicken on both sides with the mixture.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. For a crispy top, broil for the last 3-5 minutes, watching closely.
- Remove from the oven, transfer to a plate, and tent with foil. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Using a meat thermometer ensures precise cooking.
Allowing the chicken to rest helps retain moisture and flavor.
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in your favorite spices ahead of time.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 breast
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 632mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 52g
- Cholesterol: 140mg