Category: Chicken Recipes
Oh, there’s something so comforting about a beautifully cooked chicken breast, isn’t there? It’s a blank canvas for so many meals, a reliable source of protein, and honestly, when done right, just delicious. I’ve spent years perfecting my method, and I’m so excited to share what I’ve learned with you. It’s funny, I remember my grandmother always saying a good cook isn’t afraid to experiment, and she was so right! I’ve tried countless variations of baked chicken breast recipes, but I always come back to this one – it’s simple, healthy, and consistently yields the juiciest results. It’s a staple in my kitchen, and I hope it becomes one in yours too.
I often find people are intimidated by cooking chicken breast, worried it will turn out dry and bland. But trust me, with a few simple techniques, you can banish those fears forever! The key, as with so many things, is understanding the process. Brining, for example, isn’t just a fancy cooking term; it’s a little bit of kitchen magic. It helps the chicken retain moisture during baking, resulting in a tender, flavorful piece of protein. It’s a step I highly recommend, even if you’re short on time – even a quick 10-minute brine makes a noticeable difference. And honestly, it’s a great way to infuse a little extra flavor right from the start.
I’ve been exploring a lot of [healthy chicken breast recipes] lately, trying to find ways to keep things interesting and flavorful without relying on heavy sauces or complicated techniques. This recipe is a perfect example of that – it’s all about letting the quality of the ingredients shine through. I love sourcing my chicken from local farms whenever possible; you can really taste the difference. And speaking of ingredients, don’t be afraid to experiment with different spice blends! I’ve included my go-to combination, but feel free to swap in your favorites.
I’ve been thinking a lot about how cooking is such an act of care, not just for ourselves but for those we’re sharing the meal with. It’s a way to nourish and connect, and that’s what I try to convey with every recipe I share here on Easy Recipes List. I truly believe that anyone can cook, and that the joy of creating something delicious with your own hands is incredibly rewarding. I’ve been reading a beautiful novel lately, and it reminded me of how much comfort food can evoke memories and feelings of home. This simple baked chicken breast, for me, is one of those dishes. It’s a reminder of family dinners, cozy nights in, and the simple pleasure of a good meal. It’s a great base for so many [healthy chicken breast recipes], and I love how versatile it is.
I’ve also been experimenting with different cooking temperatures. I’ve found that baking at 450°F (232°C) yields the best results – it cooks the chicken quickly and evenly, locking in moisture and preventing it from drying out. It’s a little higher than some recipes call for, but trust me, it makes all the difference! I’ve been seeing a lot of interest in [healthy chicken breast recipes] that are quick and easy, and this one
definitely fits the bill. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate more lean protein into your diet. I’ve been trying to focus on more [healthy chicken breast recipes] for my own meal prep, and this one is a winner.
And finally, don’t forget to let the chicken rest before slicing! This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference. I’ve been thinking about how important it is to slow down and savor the process of cooking, and resting the chicken is a perfect example of that. It’s a moment to pause, breathe, and appreciate the effort you’ve put into creating something delicious.
Recipe Details
Healthy Baked Chicken Breast (Juicy & Easy!)
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients:
4 (8-oz) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 cups water
¼ cup sea salt (or kosher salt)
2 tablespoon olive oil
2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon sea salt
½ teaspoon paprika (or smoked paprika)
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Place chicken breasts in a large bowl with enough water to cover them. Add sea salt and stir to mostly dissolve. Brine for 10 minutes at room temperature, or up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.
Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C).
Remove chicken from brine, rinse, and pat dry. Place in a baking dish.
Brush both sides of chicken with olive oil.
Sprinkle both sides of chicken with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, sea salt, paprika, and black pepper.
Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160-165°F (71-74°C).
Cover with foil and rest for 5 minutes before serving or slicing.
Notes:
For extra juicy chicken, remove from oven at 162°F (72°C) and let rest. The temperature will continue to rise.
Feel free to experiment with different spice blends!
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To reheat, cover with a little broth and bake at 250°F (121°C) until warmed through.
Don't forget to slice against the grain for maximum tenderness!
Nutrition Information: (per serving)
Calories: 324, Fat: 12.7g, Protein: 48.4g, Total Carbs: 1.5g, Net Carbs: 0.9g, Fiber: 0.6g, Sugar: 0.1g
Image Description: A beautifully plated serving of the baked chicken breast. The sliced chicken is arranged on a white plate alongside a vibrant portion of roasted asparagus and a small mound of fluffy quinoa. A lemon wedge is placed as a garnish, and the plate is garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. The lighting is soft and natural, creating an appetizing and inviting presentation.
I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do! Please let me know in the comments how it turns out for you. And don’t forget to share your creations with me on Instagram – I love seeing what you’re cooking! ❤️ Remember, cooking with care and sharing with joy is what it’s all about.
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