Cooking a chicken breast in the oven is a simple and reliable method that results in juicy and flavorful meat. Here's a basic step-by-step guide to oven-roasting a chicken breast:
Ingredients:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breast(s)
- Olive oil or melted butter
- Salt and pepper (or your preferred seasonings)
Instructions:
Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Allow the oven to fully preheat before placing the chicken inside.
Prep the chicken breast: Pat the chicken breast dry with paper towels. This step helps the chicken brown better in the oven. If there are any visible fat or tendons, you can trim them off, but leave the chicken breast intact.
Season the chicken: Rub the chicken breast with olive oil or melted butter. This will help the seasonings stick and prevent the chicken from drying out. Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper, or any other herbs and spices you prefer. You can use a variety of seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, thyme, rosemary, or a seasoning blend of your choice.
Prepare the baking dish: Place the seasoned chicken breast in a baking dish or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If using a baking dish, you can add a drizzle of olive oil or a bit of butter to the bottom to help prevent sticking.
Roast the chicken: Put the baking dish with the chicken breast into the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breast, so it's best to use a meat thermometer to ensure it's fully cooked.
Rest the chicken: Once the chicken breast reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing or serving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, resulting in a more tender and juicy chicken breast.
Optional: If you prefer a crispier texture on the outside of the chicken, you can broil it for a couple of minutes at the end of the cooking time. Keep a close eye on it to avoid overcooking.
Remember that cooking times can vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken breast, so it's essential to use a meat thermometer to ensure it's fully cooked. Cooking chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) will ensure it's safe to eat.
Feel free to serve the oven-roasted chicken breast with your favorite side dishes, sauces, or salads for a delicious and satisfying meal.