Brined and Baked Chicken Breasts
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Cook Time
25 mins
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Additional Time
30 mins
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Total Time
1 hr
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Servings
2
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
Brined and Baked Chicken Breasts
Description
Brined and Baked Chicken Breasts begins with soaking chicken breasts in a warm brine of water, kosher salt, whole black peppercorns, and smashed garlic cloves for 30 minutes. This step draws moisture into the meat, helping it stay juicy after cooking. After brining, the breasts are rinsed, patted dry, and seasoned with garlic powder, paprika, sea salt, and black pepper.
The chicken is placed in a cooking-spray-coated baking dish and baked at 450 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 to 25 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165 degrees. High heat roasting ensures a lightly browned exterior without drying out the chicken. Letting the meat rest off heat for 5 to 7 minutes before slicing preserves tenderness and juiciness.
The resulting chicken breast is flavorful and moist, suitable for slicing into salads, sandwiches, or served as a simple main dish. The method balances straightforward seasoning with basic brining to improve texture and taste.
Ingredients
- 4 cups water warm
- ¼ cup kosher salt
- 2 tbsp black peppercorns whole
- 4 garlic smashed, cloves
- 2 chicken breast extra fat trimmed, boneless, skinless
- garlic powder to taste
- paprika to taste
- salt to taste, sea salt and freshly cracked
- black pepper to taste, sea salt and freshly cracked
Instructions
- Combine the water, kosher salt, peppercorns, and garlic cloves in an 8" square baking dish. Stir until the salt dissolves in the water.
- Add the chicken breasts and let them sit for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 450 degrees.
- Coat a baking dish with cooking spray.
- Rinse the chicken breasts, pat them dry with a paper towel, then season both sides with garlic powder, paprika, sea salt, and freshly cracked pepper, to taste.
- Place into the baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is at an internal temperature of 165 degrees.
- Remove from the oven and let the meat rest for 5-7 minutes. Slice and serve. Enjoy.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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