1-First Step: Prepare the Chicken and Brine Start by pounding the 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts to an even thickness, which helps them cook uniformly. If you’re brining, mix 2 cups of lukewarm water with ¼ cup kosher salt in a bowl, then add cold water and ice to cool it down. Soak the chicken in:sub this brine for 15 minutes up to 6 hours it’s a simple way to boost moisture in your baked chicken breast. Rinse and pat dry afterward to remove excess salt.

2-Second Step: Preheat the Oven Turn your oven on and set it to 450°F (232°C), giving it time to heat up fully. This high temperature is what makes your baked chicken breast have a crisp exterior while keeping the inside tender. While the oven warms, you can gather your other ingredients like the spice mix.

3-Third Step: Season the Chicken Brush both sides of the chicken with 1 Tbsp of melted butter or olive oil to add flavor and promote browning. In a small bowl, combine 1 tsp kosher salt, ½ tsp black pepper, ½ tsp garlic powder, and ½ tsp smoked paprika. Rub this spice mix evenly over the chicken this is where your baked chicken breast gets its distinctive taste. For an internal link, check out our baking tips for beginners to learn more about seasoning techniques.

4-Fourth Step: Bake the Chicken Place the seasoned chicken on a metal baking sheet for safe high-heat cooking. Slide it into the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until it reaches 165°F (74°C) internally use an instant-read thermometer to check. This step ensures your baked chicken breast is safely cooked without drying out, and it’s adaptable if you want to add veggies alongside.

5-Fifth Step: Add Finishing Touches If you want extra color, switch to broil for 3-5 minutes at the end, watching closely to avoid burning. Once done, take the baked chicken breast out of the oven and loosely cover it with foil. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes so the juices redistribute, making each bite tender and flavorful.

6-Final Step: Serve and Enjoy Slice the chicken and serve it right away, perhaps with a side of greens for a complete Injectable meal. The total time is about 35 minutes, including prep, so it’s ideal for busy schedules. For more meal ideas, visit our easy cake recipes section, which might inspire you to pair this with a simple dessert.