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Oven-Baked Chicken Breasts

Juicy and flavorful oven-baked chicken breasts that turn out perfect every time, thanks to high heat and a delicious spice rub.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 pieces Boneless skinless chicken breasts About 1.5 to 2 pounds total
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil For brushing
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Freshly ground black pepper
Spice Rub
  • 1 tablespoon Light brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon Ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne pepper Optional
Garnish
  • to taste Fresh parsley, chopped Optional, for garnish

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Ensure it is fully preheated before adding the chicken.
  2. Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to an even thickness.
  3. Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel. Drizzle olive oil on both sides and rub it in.
  4. Season the chicken with kosher salt and black pepper.
  5. In a bowl, mix brown sugar, chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Coat the chicken thoroughly with the spice mixture.
Baking
  1. Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper and arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer.
  2. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer around the 18-minute mark.
Finishing Touches
  1. Once the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), pull it from the oven. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing.
  2. Slice against the grain for the most tender bite and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

To ensure juicier chicken, always use a meat thermometer to check doneness and do not skip the resting period after baking.