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Baked Chicken Breast

Juicy Baked Chicken Breast Recipe

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Prep Time 1 minute
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 21 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 to 8 oz each)
  • 4 cups water
  • 1/4 cup kosher salt
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

Method
 

  1. Dissolve 1/4 cup kosher salt in 4 cups warm water. Add the chicken breasts and let them sit at room temperature for 15 minutes. Drain, rinse briefly, and pat completely dry.
  2. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). In a small bowl, mix the 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and the optional 1/4 tsp cayenne. Rub the mixture all over the dry chicken breasts.
  3. Place the chicken on a rimmed baking sheet and bake for 18 to 22 minutes, until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165°F (74°C).
  4. Let the chicken rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes, then slice against the grain and serve.

Notes

The 15-minute brine soak is not included in the prep time, but you can use that window to heat the oven and mix the spice rub. If your breasts are very thick, pound them to an even 1-inch thickness before brining for more consistent cooking.