Cooking a chicken breast in the oven is a simple and delicious way to prepare this versatile protein. Here's a basic recipe to guide you through the process:
Ingredients:
- Chicken breast(s)
- Olive oil or melted butter
- Salt and pepper
- Optional: herbs, spices, or marinade of your choice
Instructions:
Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) or 400°F (200°C) depending on your preference and the thickness of the chicken breast. Higher temperatures will result in a slightly crispier exterior, while lower temperatures will cook the chicken more gently.
Prepare the chicken breast: Pat the chicken breast dry with paper towels. Trimming any excess fat or skin is optional, but it can help prevent flare-ups and make the meat cook more evenly.
Season the chicken: Drizzle some olive oil or melted butter over the chicken breast and rub it all over to coat the meat. Sprinkle salt and pepper (and any other desired herbs or spices) on both sides of the chicken, ensuring even seasoning.
Optional marination: If you have time, you can marinate the chicken breast in your favorite marinade for added flavor. Place the seasoned chicken in a resealable plastic bag or a covered dish, and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to several hours.
Prepare the baking dish: Place the chicken breast in a baking dish or oven-safe skillet. If you marinated the chicken, you can pour some of the marinade over the meat in the baking dish.
Bake the chicken: Put the baking dish in the preheated oven and cook for approximately 20-25 minutes. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the chicken breast. To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken is safe to eat when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Rest the chicken: Once the chicken breast is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more tender chicken breast.
Serve: Slice the chicken breast or serve it whole, and enjoy it with your favorite sides.
Remember, cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken breast, so using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure it's cooked to perfection and safe to eat.