There’s something almost magical about a simple chicken breast transforming into a juicy masterpiece in the oven—like witnessing a caterpillar become a butterfly! This recipe is like a warm hug after a long day, and it’s so easy that you can practically make it with your eyes closed. Oh, and did I mention the aroma? It fills the kitchen like a cozy daydream, beckoning everyone to the table.
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking tray with foil and parchment paper. Use a rolling pin or meat mallet to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1.5 cm (0.6 inches), which ensures even cooking and tender meat.
- Prepare the seasoning by mixing brown sugar, paprika, oregano (or your preferred herb), garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This blend adds both flavor and a slight sweetness to the chicken.
- Place the chicken breasts upside down on the prepared tray. Drizzle each breast with about 1 teaspoon of olive oil and rub it over the surface using your fingers. Sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over the chicken.
- Flip the chicken breasts over, repeat the oil drizzle, and apply the remaining seasoning. Ensure the seasoning coats as much of the surface as possible for maximum flavor.
- Bake the chicken for approximately 18 minutes, or until the surface is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The caramelized exterior indicates the chicken is cooked perfectly inside.
- Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and immediately transfer it to serving plates. Allow the chicken to rest for 3-5 minutes to let the juices redistribute, resulting in more flavorful and juicy meat.
- Optionally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. This dish pairs well with sides like Garlic Butter Rice with Kale or a fresh salad dressed in your choice of vinaigrette.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts, 150–180g / 5–6 oz each
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1 1/2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme (or other herb of choice)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- Finely chopped parsley
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1144cal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 184g | Fat: 28g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 508mg | Sodium: 1612mg | Potassium: 1588mg | Sugar: 16g | Vitamin A: 1300IU | Vitamin C: 6.8mg | Calcium: 44mg | Iron: 2.4mg
FAQ
- How can I ensure my baked chicken breast stays juicy?
- To keep your chicken breast juicy, use a simple seasoning that includes brown sugar. This helps the chicken sweat during baking, creating a semi-sauce that enhances moisture. Additionally, cook at a high temperature for quick caramelization without drying out the meat.
- What is the best way to prepare the chicken breast before baking?
- It’s crucial to pound the chicken breast to an even thickness using a rolling pin, meat mallet, or even your fist. This ensures even cooking and tenderizes the meat, resulting in a perfectly cooked dish.
- How long should I bake the chicken breast for optimal results?
- Bake a medium-sized chicken breast at 220°C (425°F) for 18 to 20 minutes. The high temperature ensures beautiful caramelization and succulent chicken. The seasoning acts as an indicator: once the surface is caramelized, the chicken is perfectly cooked.
- Can I use this recipe for chicken thighs instead of breasts?
- Yes, this recipe can be adapted for chicken thighs. Follow the same steps but adjust the baking time to 25 minutes for small to medium thighs and 30 minutes for larger ones.
- What are some suggested sides to serve with this baked chicken breast?
- This versatile dish pairs well with Garlic Butter Rice with Kale, Tomato Basil Rice, or Mushroom Rice. For a refreshing touch, try a Spring Salad or Creamy Cucumber Salad with Lemon Yogurt Dressing.
Tips
- To ensure your chicken breast cooks evenly and stays tender, pound it to an even thickness before baking. This helps with both cooking consistency and tenderizing the meat.
- Use a simple seasoning mix with brown sugar, paprika, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. The brown sugar acts as a secret ingredient, helping the chicken to sweat as it bakes, which keeps it juicy and adds a touch of caramelization.
- Bake your chicken breast at a high temperature of 220°C/425°F for 18-20 minutes. This method ensures a beautifully caramelized crust and juicy interior. Use the color of the crust as an indicator of doneness, or check with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F/75°C internally.
- After baking, let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more succulent and flavorful chicken.
Equipment
- Meat mallet or rolling pin (for pounding the chicken to even thickness)
- Baking tray
- Foil and baking/parchment paper
- Meat thermometer (optional but useful for checking internal temperature)
