what temperature to bake chicken breast

what temperature to bake chicken breast

1 year ago 73
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To bake chicken breast, there are a few key steps to follow to ensure that it comes out juicy and tender. Here are the steps to follow:

  1. Brine the chicken (optional): If your chicken breasts have not already been pre-brined in a sodium solution, you can brine them yourself to help keep them moist during cooking. To do this, fill a large bowl with 1 quart of warm water and 1/4 cup kosher salt. Stir to combine until most of the salt is absorbed. Add the chicken breasts and let them sit in the mixture to brine for 15 minutes, or you can also cover the bowl and refrigerate for up to 6 hours.

  2. Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F.

  3. Season the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a single layer in a large baking dish. Brush on both sides (turning once) evenly with melted butter or olive oil. In a separate small bowl, whisk the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until combined. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the chicken on both sides.

  4. Bake the chicken: Bake for 18-26 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink. Cooking time will depend on the thickness of the chicken breasts, so it is recommended to use a cooking thermometer to know exactly when the chicken is fully cooked. The thickest part of the breast should measure 165°F.

  5. Rest the chicken: After removing the chicken from the oven, let it rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing and serving. This will help the juices redistribute and keep the chicken moist.

In summary, the recommended temperature to bake chicken breast is 425°F, and the cooking time will depend on the thickness of the chicken breasts. It is important to use a cooking thermometer to ensure that the chicken is fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F.

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