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Healthy Baked Chicken Breast Recipe

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4 from 15 reviews

This Healthy Baked Chicken Breast recipe offers a simple yet flavorful way to prepare tender and juicy chicken breasts. The chicken is first brined to enhance moisture and then seasoned with a blend of Italian herbs and spices before baking at a high temperature for a perfectly cooked, delicious meal that’s perfect for a wholesome dinner.

  • Total Time: 37 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Brine

  • 4 cups Water
  • 1/4 cup Sea salt (or kosher salt)

Chicken and Seasoning

  • 4 8-oz Boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil
  • 2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp Garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Sea salt
  • 1/2 tsp Paprika (or smoked paprika)
  • 1/4 tsp Black pepper

Instructions

  1. Brining the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large bowl and cover them with about 4 cups of water. Add 1/4 cup sea salt and stir until mostly dissolved. Let the breasts sit in the brine for 10 minutes at room temperature, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours to enhance moisture and flavor.
  2. Preparing the chicken: Drain the brine and rinse the chicken breasts under cold water, then pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure a good sear and even cooking.
  3. Preheating the oven: Set the oven to 450 degrees F (232 degrees C) to create the ideal high heat environment for baking juicy chicken.
  4. Seasoning the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish, making sure they are not touching or just barely touching one another. Brush both sides of each breast evenly with olive oil for moisture and to help spices adhere.
  5. Adding spices: Sprinkle both sides of the chicken breasts evenly with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, 1 teaspoon sea salt, paprika, and black pepper to build a balanced savory flavor.
  6. Baking: Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes until the meat is firm and no longer pink inside. The internal temperature should reach 160-165 degrees F (71-74 degrees C); it will rise about 5 degrees during resting.
  7. Resting the chicken: Cover the baked chicken breasts loosely with foil and let them rest for 5 minutes before slicing or serving. This helps retain juices, making the chicken tender and juicy.

Notes

  • Brining the chicken is optional but highly recommended for juicier results.
  • Use a probe thermometer for the most precise cooking; it alerts you when the chicken reaches the perfect temperature.
  • Feel free to substitute smoked paprika for a smokier flavor profile.
  • Allowing the chicken to rest after baking helps redistribute the juices within the meat.
  • Adjust seasoning amounts to taste, especially salt, depending on dietary needs.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 22 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat

Find it online: https://dishiary.com/healthy-baked-chicken-breast-recipe/