Simple Baked Chicken Breasts Recipe: Achieving Juicy Perfection Every Time
Learn how to achieve perfectly baked chicken that’s tender, juicy, and flavorful using this simple, 5-ingredient recipe for skinless, boneless chicken breasts. The addition of a little chicken broth creates a tasty pan sauce that enhances the dish at your table. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, these baking chicken breasts tips will ensure success.
Yield: 4 Servings
Ingredients
- 4 (5 ounce) skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon coarse sea salt, or to taste
- 1 pinch Creole seasoning (such as Tony Chachere’s®), or more to taste
- 1 tablespoon chicken broth, or more to taste
Instructions: How to Bake Chicken Breasts
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While there are debates on whether to bake chicken at 350 or 400, baking at 400 ensures a beautiful golden color and juicy inside.
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat each chicken breast dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as it helps the olive oil and seasonings adhere to the chicken.
- Season Generously: Brush each breast with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt, Creole seasoning, and any other desired spices.
- Arrange in Baking Dish: Place the chicken breasts in a single layer in a baking dish, leaving space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This is the optimal temperature for safely cooked but juicy chicken.
- Prepare Simple Pan Sauce: Remove chicken breasts to a serving platter. Add chicken broth to the pan drippings, stirring well to create a tasty sauce for drizzling over the chicken.
- Serve: Serve chicken breasts with the pan sauce, enjoying the extra moisture it adds to the dish.
Baking Chicken Breasts Tips: Ensuring Moisture and Flavor
For those worried about dry chicken, covering the chicken while baking can trap steam, helping retain moisture. However, baking uncovered at 400 degrees adds a desirable crispy exterior. For a commitment to health, air frying is an excellent alternative, reducing the need for added oils.
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
Simple Baked Chicken Breasts offer a quick and flavorful main dish perfect for any occasion. Preparing them is fuss-free and the results are satisfying. Moreover, this dish pairs well with various sides, making it versatile and easy-to-customize for your taste preferences.
FAQ: Commonly Asked Questions
Is it better to bake chicken at 350 or 400 in the oven?
For baking chicken breasts, 400 degrees is recommended for a balance of juicy interior and slightly crisp exterior.
Should you bake chicken covered or uncovered at 400 degrees?
While baking uncovered at this temperature offers a nice crisp, covering will guarantee that the chicken remains moist.
Discover More Baked Chicken Delights
Explore more delightful chicken recipes, including Honey Garlic Chicken or Chicken Parmesan, diverse enough to impress at any meal. Check out additional easy chicken breast recipes with few ingredients for a seamless cooking experience.
Try this Simple Baked Chicken Breasts recipe today and enjoy a nutritious meal that’s perfect for any gathering. The flexibility in preparation methods ensures that you’ll have a perfect dish according to your tastes and dietary preferences!
