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Baked Chicken Breast

Baked Chicken Breast - Cheap Delicious Meals

Let’s be honest; baking chicken breast can be hit or miss. On one hand, you could end up with a moist, savory dish. On the other? A dry, rubbery disappointment. But I promise you, this recipe is a sure thing. 
Having spent years perfecting my technique, I’ve discovered a harmonious blend of seasonings and cooking methods that deliver juicy, flavorful chicken every time. If you're hunting for an easy dinner that flies off the plate, you've struck gold!
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 23 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Western
Calories: 200
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Gather the following:
  • 4 skinless chicken breasts 150-180g / 5-6 oz each
  • 2 tsp extra virgin olive oil
Seasoning:
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 1/2 tbsp light brown sugar
  • 1/4 tsp granulated garlic
  • 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried thyme or your preferred herb
  • 1/2 tsp lemon zest
Garnish (optional):
  • Finely chopped fresh parsley

Method
 

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This heating ensures that the chicken will cook thoroughly and develop a lovely golden exterior.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
  1. While the oven heats, pat the chicken breasts dry using paper towels. This step helps achieve that beautifully browned skin. Once dried, place the chicken in a large bowl.
Step 3: Make the Seasoning Mix
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the smoked paprika, salt, light brown sugar, granulated garlic, black pepper, thyme, and lemon zest. This mix brings a lovely harmony of flavors to the chicken.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
  1. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken in the bowl. Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the top. Use your hands to rub the mixture into the chicken, making sure each piece is generously coated. This ensures flavor in every bite.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken
  1. Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This helps with clean-up later. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Step 6: Rest Before Serving
  1. Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it even juicier.

Notes

Here are five handy tips to ensure your baked chicken breast is a triumph:
  • Don't Skip the Drying Step: Moist chicken leads to sogginess. A quick pat down helps your seasoning stick better.
  • Marinate Ahead: If you have time, marinate the chicken for a couple of hours or overnight for even deeper flavor.
  • Check the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer for precision. A perfectly cooked chicken breast is always juicy.
  • Let It Rest: Resist cutting immediately. Waiting helps keep the juices locked inside.
Store Leftovers Properly: Use an airtight container for storing any leftovers, keeping them fresh for meals to come.