To cook chicken breast in the oven, the general guideline is:
- Preheat your oven to between 400°F and 450°F (200°C to 230°C).
- Bake boneless, skinless chicken breasts for about 15 to 25 minutes depending on thickness and oven temperature.
- The chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) measured with a meat thermometer at the thickest part.
More detailed timing based on thickness or size:
- At 450°F, bake for about 15-18 minutes for average-sized breasts
- At 425°F, medium breasts (around 7 oz) take 18-20 minutes; larger breasts (9 oz) take 22-25 minutes
- At 400°F, bake for 20-26 minutes depending on thickness (e.g., 1/2-inch thick: 16-18 min; 3/4-inch: 20-22 min; 1-inch: 24-26 min)
- At 220°C (425°F), 20-25 minutes is typical
Additional tips for best results:
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking; remove chicken at 160°F and let rest to reach 165°F through carryover cooking for juiciness
- Let chicken rest 5-10 minutes after baking.
- Pound breasts to even thickness for uniform cooking.
- Bringing chicken to room temperature before baking helps even cooking
In summary, bake chicken breasts at 400-450°F for 15-25 minutes until the internal temperature hits 165°F, adjusting time for size and thickness, and always rest before serving for juicy, fully cooked chicken.