Baking skinless, boneless chicken breasts is a simple and delicious way to prepare a healthy meal. Here's a basic recipe to guide you through the process:
Ingredients:
- Skinless, boneless chicken breasts
- Olive oil or cooking spray
- Salt and pepper (or other preferred seasonings)
Instructions:
Preheat your oven: Set the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat while you prepare the chicken.
Prepare the chicken: Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. If there are any visible fat or tendons, you can trim them with a sharp knife.
Season the chicken: Brush the chicken breasts lightly with olive oil or use a cooking spray to coat them. Sprinkle salt, pepper, or any other preferred seasonings over both sides of the chicken breasts. You can also use herbs like thyme, rosemary, or paprika for additional flavor.
Use a baking dish: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish. If you want to prevent sticking, you can line the dish with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
Bake the chicken: Put the baking dish with the chicken breasts into the preheated oven. The cooking time will vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken breasts, but it usually takes around 20 to 25 minutes for standard-sized breasts. To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Rest the chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices distribute evenly, keeping the meat moist and tender.
Serve: Your baked chicken breasts are now ready to be served. You can enjoy them as they are or use them in various recipes such as salads, sandwiches, or pasta dishes.
Remember, cooking times may vary depending on your oven and the thickness of the chicken breasts, so it's always a good idea to check the internal temperature to ensure they are fully cooked. Enjoy your delicious and healthy baked chicken!