Easy Baked Chicken Breast
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Cook Time
20 mins
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Total Time
25 mins
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Servings
4
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Calories
328 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
Easy Baked Chicken Breast
Description
This recipe requires the chicken breasts to be brought closer to room temperature before baking to promote even cooking. A spice blend combining smoked paprika and common dried spices provides a layered flavor profile while the olive oil keeps the surface moist. Baking at 450°F on the upper oven rack sears the outside, helping lock in juices. Using an instant read thermometer ensures the chicken reaches safe doneness at 160°F internally, followed by resting to reach the recommended 165°F.
The result is a versatile baked chicken breast suitable for slicing on salads, serving with sides, or topping grains. Spoon the pan juices over the chicken after resting for added moisture and flavor.
For consistent results, avoid overcooking by monitoring size and thickness, adjusting the cooking time accordingly. Resting the meat after baking allows juices to redistribute, improving texture and taste.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breast boneless skinless
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or as needed)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper or to taste
Instructions
- Take the chicken breasts out of the fridge (it's good to let them warm up a bit first before baking). Preheat your oven to 450F and move the rack to the top third of the oven.
- Combine the spice rub ingredients in a small bowl.
- Add the chicken breasts to a baking dish or foil-lined baking sheet and coat all over with olive oil, followed by the rub (use your hands).
- Bake, uncovered, for 18-20 minutes for medium-sized chicken breasts (try 15 minutes for small ones, and you may need longer for very large ones) or until an instant read thermometer registers 160F. Let rest for 5 minutes until juices redistribute and it comes to 165F (safe chicken temperature). Slice or serve as-is, and spoon the pan juices over top if desired.
Notes
- An instant read meat thermometer is recommended to prevent overcooking and ensure juiciness.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 328 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 328kcal | 16% |
| Carbohydrates | 2g | 1% |
| Protein | 48g | 96% |
| Fat | 13g | 20% |
| Saturated Fat | 2g | 10% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2g | 12% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 7g | 35% |
| Trans Fat | 0.03g | 2% |
| Cholesterol | 145mg | 48% |
| Sodium | 853mg | 36% |
| Potassium | 881mg | 19% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 0.2g | 0% |
| Vitamin A | 472IU | 9% |
| Vitamin C | 3mg | 3% |
| Calcium | 26mg | 3% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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