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Never Eat Dry Chicken Again: The #1 Fail-Proof Method to Bake Chicken Breasts

Chef Andrew
Tired of dry, tough chicken? Discover the #1 fail-proof method to bake chicken breasts perfectly every time. This easy, 3-step guide guarantees juicy, tender results.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Brining Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 breasts

Equipment

  • Baking Dish
  • Meat Thermometer
  • Meat Mallet

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts about 8 oz each

For the Quick Brine

  • 4 cups water divided into 2 cups lukewarm and 2 cups cold
  • 1/4 cup kosher salt

For Seasoning & Baking

  • 1 tablespoon melted butter or olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly-ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions
 

  • Quick Brine (The Moisture Secret): In a large bowl, dissolve ¼ cup kosher salt in 2 cups lukewarm water. Add 2 cups cold water. Submerge chicken breasts and let sit for 15 minutes. Remove, rinse with cold water, and pat completely dry.
  • Prep for Baking: Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Pound chicken breasts to an even ¾-inch thickness. This is crucial for even cooking.
  • Season the Chicken: Arrange chicken in a single layer in a metal or ceramic baking dish. Brush with melted butter or oil. In a small bowl, mix the 1 tsp salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Sprinkle evenly over all sides of the chicken.
  • Bake: Bake for 15-18 minutes. The exact time depends on thickness, so use a meat thermometer. Chicken is done when the thickest part reaches 165°F (for best results, pull from oven at 160°F).
  • Rest for Juiciness (Essential Step): Transfer chicken to a clean plate, tent loosely with foil, and let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, guaranteeing a moist result.

Notes

Chef's Pro-Tips: The Fail-Proof Method

  • Pounding is Key: An even thickness is the #1 secret to ensuring the entire breast cooks evenly without drying out.
  • Trust the Thermometer: Cooking to temperature (165°F), not time, is the only way to guarantee perfectly cooked chicken. Pulling it at 160°F and letting it rest is the pro move.
  • Don't Skip the Rest: Slicing the chicken too early will cause all the precious juices to leak out. Be patient!
Keyword bake chicken breasts, healthy chicken recipe, juicy chicken breast, Meal Prep