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Oven Baked Chicken Breast Recipe

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4.1 from 36 reviews

  • Author: Diane
  • Total Time: 23 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

This Oven Baked Chicken Breast recipe delivers tender, juicy chicken breasts perfectly seasoned with a blend of brown sugar, paprika, and herbs. The chicken is pounded to an even thickness for uniform cooking and baked at a high temperature to develop a golden, flavorful crust. It’s a simple yet delicious main dish that pairs beautifully with various sides like garlic butter rice and kale.

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 4 chicken breasts (150 - 180g / 5 - 6 oz each)
  • 2 tsp olive oil

Seasoning

  • 1 1/2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp dried oregano or thyme (or other herb of choice)
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

Garnish

  • Finely chopped parsley

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) or 200°C if using a fan-forced oven to ensure it reaches the optimum temperature for baking the chicken.
  2. Pound the chicken: Using a rolling pin, meat mallet, or your fist, gently pound each chicken breast to about 1.5 cm (0.6 inches) thickness. This step guarantees even cooking and tender results.
  3. Mix the seasoning: In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, paprika, dried oregano or thyme, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper thoroughly.
  4. Prepare the baking tray: Line a tray with foil and then baking or parchment paper. Place the chicken breasts upside down on the tray. Drizzle about 1 teaspoon of olive oil over each and rub it in with your fingers. Sprinkle an ample amount of the seasoning mixture over this side.
  5. Season the other side: Flip the chicken breasts over. Repeat the oiling and rub in about 1 teaspoon more olive oil per chicken breast, then sprinkle the remaining seasoning over the top side, covering as much surface as possible.
  6. Bake the chicken: Place the tray in the preheated oven for 18 minutes or until the chicken skin is golden and a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165°F (75°C).
  7. Remove and rest: Take the chicken out of the oven and immediately transfer it to serving plates. Allow the chicken to rest for 3 to 5 minutes; this helps redistribute the juices and retain moisture.
  8. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the chicken before serving. Enjoy with your favorite side dishes such as garlic butter rice and kale.

Notes

  • Pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness is crucial for uniform cooking and preventing dryness.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked safely to 165°F (75°C).
  • Brown sugar helps create a slightly sweet, caramelized crust on the chicken.
  • Fresh herbs can be substituted based on preference for added flavor.
  • Resting the chicken after baking allows the juices to settle, making the chicken more tender.
  • Serve with side dishes like garlic butter rice and kale for a complete meal.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 18 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://eatwithdiane.com/oven-baked-chicken-breast-recipe/