The Ultimate Juicy Baked Chicken Breast Recipe: Tips & Tricks for Perfect Results Every Time

Why Baked Chicken Breast is a Kitchen Staple

Baked chicken breast is a staple in many kitchens for good reason: it’s a versatile, healthy, and easy dinner option that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

• High in protein: Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, making it a great choice for those looking to boost their muscle mass or simply maintain a balanced diet.
• Easy to prepare: Simply season, bake, and serve – it’s a low-fuss option that’s hard to mess up.
• Customizable: With a range of seasonings and marinades to choose from, baked chicken breast can be tailored to suit any taste or dietary preference.

In this recipe, we’ll take the humble baked chicken breast to the next level by incorporating a simple yet flavorful dry rub. The result is a juicy, tender, and mouthwatering main course that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Juicy Baked Chicken Breast Recipe

This easy chicken breast recipe yields tender and juicy results every time. Here are the essential details to get started:

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1200 g / 2.6 lbs)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (30 ml / 1 fl oz)
• 1 tsp dried herbs (5 g / 0.2 oz)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Details:

Cook the chicken in a preheated oven at 200°C / 400°F for 25-30 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 74°C / 165°F.

Baking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken breasts. Ensure to check the temperature regularly to avoid overcooking.

This chicken breast recipe is a great foundation for various meals, and its easy recipe instructions make it perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

What You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients to create a flavorful and juicy baked chicken breast. Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking, or substitute ingredients based on your preferences.

• 240 g / 1 cup boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Look for chicken breasts that are roughly the same size for even cooking.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps to brown the chicken and prevent sticking.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavor of the chicken.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of spice.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides a savory depth of flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika: Contributes a subtle smokiness.
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds an earthy note.

Optional additions:

• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (for a touch of heat)

Step-by-Step Guide to Juicy Baked Chicken Breast

Follow these simple steps to achieve perfectly cooked, juicy baked chicken breast every time.

1. Preheat your oven. Set the temperature to 200°C (400°F) and let it heat up for at least 10 minutes to ensure even cooking.
2. Prep the chicken breast. Rinse 1-2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (240 g / 1 cup each) under cold water, pat them dry with a paper towel, and season with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Prep the marinade. In a small bowl, whisk together 60 ml (1/4 cup) olive oil, 30 ml (2 tablespoons) lemon juice, and 10 g (2 teaspoons) dried thyme. Brush the mixture evenly onto both chicken breasts.
4. Line the baking sheet. Place a sheet of parchment paper or aluminum foil on a baking sheet, leaving some overhang for easy cleanup.
5. Place the chicken breast. Position the marinated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 5 cm (2 inches) of space between them to allow for even cooking.
6. Drizzle with extra oil (optional). If you prefer a crispy skin, drizzle a little extra olive oil over the chicken breasts.
7. Bake the chicken breast. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F). Flip the chicken breasts halfway through the cooking time for even cooking.
8. Check for doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken breast has reached a safe internal temperature. If not, return it to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes or until it reaches the desired temperature.
9. Let it rest. Remove the baked chicken breast from the oven and let it rest on the baking sheet for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken breast even juicier.
10. Slice and serve. Slice the rested chicken breast into thin strips and serve hot. You can also refrigerate or freeze it for later use.

Remember to always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken breast has reached a safe internal temperature to avoid foodborne illness.

By following these simple steps, you’ll achieve perfectly cooked, juicy baked chicken breast every time.

Pro Tips: Elevate Your Baked Chicken

To achieve a truly juicy chicken breast, it’s essential to understand the importance of proper preparation and baking techniques. Avoid overbaking, as this can lead to dry, flavorless chicken.

Insider Tips for Flavorful Chicken

• Brine the chicken breast in a mixture of 240 g / 1 cup kosher salt, 1 liter / 4 cups water, and your choice of aromatics (e.g., garlic, herbs) for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor and moisture.
• Pound the chicken breast to an even thickness of about 2.5 cm / 1 inch to ensure consistent cooking and prevent overcooking.
• Bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 200°C / 400°F for 20-25 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 74°C / 165°F.

Common pitfalls to avoid include overcrowding the baking sheet, which can prevent even air circulation and lead to steaming instead of browning. Also, don’t open the oven door too frequently, as this can cause temperature fluctuations and affect the final result.

By following these pro tips and avoiding common mistakes, you’ll be able to achieve a juicy baked chicken breast with incredible flavor every time. Remember to let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring a truly satisfying and flavorful chicken experience.

Making it Your Own: Ingredient Substitutions

Love the idea of this juicy baked chicken breast recipe but want to tweak it to your liking? Here’s how to swap out ingredients and still enjoy a delicious meal.

Chicken Breast Alternatives

While chicken breast is the star here, you can substitute it with:

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: These tend to stay juicier during baking.
• Pork tenderloin: Offers a slightly different flavor profile but bakes similarly.
• Fish fillets: Opt for firm white fish like cod or halibut for best results.

Dairy-Free Options

This recipe uses Greek yogurt for a tangy marinade. If you’re dairy-free, try:

• Plain vegan yogurt: Look for a thick, creamy variety.
• Dairy-free sour cream: This can add a similar tanginess.
• Lemon juice and olive oil: Combine these for a zesty, dairy-free marinade.

Gluten-Free Variations

The recipe uses gluten-free breadcrumbs for a crispy coating. If you’re avoiding gluten entirely, you can:

• Omit the breadcrumb coating altogether.
• Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs.
• Try crushed nuts or seeds for a different textural element.

Classic Ingredients

For the original juicy baked chicken breast recipe, you’ll need:

• 240 g / 1 cup boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 120 g / 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 60 g / 1/2 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs

Optional Ingredients:

• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Get Creative with Juicy Baked Chicken Breast: Endless Possibilities

Transform your basic baked chicken breast recipe into a culinary masterpiece by experimenting with various flavor profiles, sauces, and toppings. The possibilities are endless, and we’re excited to share some of our favorite variations with you.

Italian-Style Baked Chicken Breast

• Marinate chicken in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, and lemon juice (30 minutes to 1 hour longer than the original recipe).
• Top with sliced mozzarella cheese and fresh basil leaves.

Spicy Korean-Style Baked Chicken Breast

• Mix gochujang (Korean chili paste) with soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic for a sweet and spicy glaze.
• Add toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions for added texture and flavor.

Mediterranean Baked Chicken Breast

• Marinate chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, and thyme.
• Top with crumbled feta cheese, chopped Kalamata olives, and artichoke hearts.

Indian-Style Baked Chicken Breast

• Mix yogurt with garam masala, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper for a creamy and aromatic marinade.
• Top with toasted cumin seeds and chopped cilantro.

Feel free to experiment and combine different flavors to create your own unique baked chicken breast recipes.

Storage: Keeping it Fresh

To maintain the quality and safety of cooked chicken breast, proper storage is crucial. Cooked chicken breast can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 hours, but it’s recommended to refrigerate or freeze it as soon as possible.

• Refrigerate: Store in a sealed container at 4°C / 39°F for up to 3 to 4 days.
• Freeze: Store in an airtight container or freezer bag at -18°C / 0°F for up to 4 months.

When reheating, ensure the chicken breast reaches a minimum internal temperature of 74°C / 165°F. Use within 2 hours of reheating, and do not reheat more than once. Always check for any signs of spoilage before consuming, such as an off smell or slimy texture.

Troubleshooting: Common Issues and Solutions

Even the best-laid plans can go awry when baking chicken breast. But don’t worry, these common issues and their solutions will help you achieve juicy, tender perfection every time.

1. Dry Chicken Breast

   This is the most common complaint when baking chicken. It usually happens when the chicken is cooked for too long or at too high a temperature.

   • Solution: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F). Don’t overbake!
   • Solution: Try brining the chicken in a salt-water solution for 30 minutes before baking. This helps retain moisture.
   • Solution: Add a splash of liquid to the baking dish, like chicken broth or white wine, to create steam and prevent dryness.

2. Overcooked Chicken

   Overcooked chicken becomes tough and rubbery.

   • Solution: Start checking the chicken’s temperature early, about 20 minutes into baking.
   • Solution: Use a lower oven temperature (180°C/350°F) and bake for a shorter amount of time.

With a little attention and these tips, you can avoid common chicken breast problems and enjoy perfectly juicy, flavorful results every time!

Nutrition: A Healthy Choice

This juicy baked chicken breast recipe is a nutritious and delicious addition to any meal. With its lean protein and low calorie count, it’s an ideal choice for those following a healthy diet.

• Per serving (1 breast, 120g):
• Calories: 140 (590°F)
• Protein: 26g
• Fat: 3g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 0g

This recipe is also free from common allergens and dietary restrictions:

• Gluten-free (GF)
• Dairy-free (DF)
• Vegan (no)

Enjoy the numerous health benefits of chicken breast, including improved muscle growth and repair, enhanced immune function, and reduced inflammation.

Frequently Asked Questions

When it comes to baking chicken breast, several questions often arise. Here are some answers to common queries to help achieve the perfect juicy baked chicken breast.

• What temperature is best for baking chicken breast? The recommended temperature is 200°C / 400°F for even cooking and to prevent dryness.
• How long does it take to bake chicken breast? Baking time depends on the size and thickness of the breast, but a general guideline is 20-25 minutes for a 240 g / 1 cup breast at 200°C / 400°F.
• How to keep chicken breast moist while baking? Marinating the chicken in a mixture containing 60 ml / 1/4 cup olive oil and seasoning before baking helps retain moisture and adds flavor.

By following these tips and guidelines, concerns about baking chicken breast can be addressed, and a deliciously juicy meal can be achieved.

Key Takeaways: Mastering the Art of Baked Chicken

Baking chicken breast can seem simple, but achieving that perfect balance of juicy tenderness and crispy skin takes a few key tricks. Here’s a summary of essential tips to elevate your baked chicken game:

1. Brining is your best friend: Submerge your chicken in a salt-water solution for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours) before baking. This helps retain moisture for incredibly juicy results.
2. Pat it dry: Excess moisture inhibits browning. Thoroughly pat the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning.
3. Season generously: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper! A good rub of herbs and spices adds flavor depth. Consider adding a touch of paprika for a hint of smokiness.
4. High-heat start: Begin baking at a higher temperature (200°C/400°F) to sear the exterior and lock in juices. Then, reduce the heat to 175°C/350°F to ensure even cooking.
5. Don’t overcook: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 74°C/165°F. Overcooked chicken is dry and tough.

With these tips in mind, you’ll be baking perfectly juicy chicken breasts every time!

From My Kitchen to Yours

When developing this juicy baked chicken breast recipe, I drew inspiration from my grandmother’s classic cooking techniques. She always emphasized the importance of marinating and proper cooking temperatures to achieve tender, flavorful results.

One of my favorite tips for achieving succulent baked chicken is to make sure the chicken is at room temperature before baking. This helps the meat cook evenly and prevents it from drying out.

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 74°C (165°F).
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet, as this can cause the chicken to steam instead of roast. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Experiment with different marinades and seasonings to find your favorite flavor combinations.

Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be discouraged if your first attempts at baking chicken don’t turn out exactly as you hoped. With a little patience and experimentation, you’ll be on your way to creating delicious, juicy baked chicken breast like a pro.

Enjoy Your Juicy Baked Chicken!

Now that you have this chicken breast recipe, it’s time to give it a try. Bake your chicken breast to perfection at 200°C / 400°F for a deliciously juicy result. Share your recipe success and explore other related recipes for a world of flavor. With 240 g / 1 cup of chicken breast, the possibilities are endless. Try this juicy baked chicken recipe today and discover a new favorite chicken breast recipe to enjoy your meal.