Transform your kitchen skills with this foolproof method on “How to Cook a Chicken Breast”. In just a few simple steps, you’ll achieve juicy, tender, and perfectly seasoned chicken every time!
I know; this recipe seems so basic. That’s because it is! Almost a year ago, I hopped on Facebook Live and did a short tutorial for this exact recipe. It’s one we get asked about a lot, so I’m finally dedicating an entire post to it and sharing it with the world. So how to cook a chicken breast? It’s simple: tenderize, season, sear, bake, and rest!
This is how we cook incredibly juicy, tender, and flavorful chicken breasts. They come out perfect every time. You can serve them as is, or slice them up and use them in just about anything. If you’re looking for the best way to cook chicken breasts, this is it!
Perfectly cooking a juicy chicken breast is something anyone can do, and everyone should know! Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad, Chicken Caprese Pasta Salad, and Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Noodles are just a few recipes you can use these chicken breasts in.
Table of Contents
Reasons to Love this Chicken Recipe
- Chicken breast is versatile. You can bake chicken breast, grill, sauté, or slow-cook it.
- It can be frozen for long-term storage. It’s a convenient option for planning ahead and reducing food waste.
- Compared to other meats, chicken breast cooks relatively quickly, perfect for fast-paced quick meal preparation.
Recipe Ingredients
- Garlic Powder: Garlic powder brings a warm, slightly spicy, and aromatic flavor.
- Paprika: Paprika offers a sweet-peppery flavor with a hint of smokiness.
- Cayenne Pepper: Used sparingly, it introduces a spicy kick.
See the recipe card for full information on ingredients and quantities.
Variations
- Spices Variations: Elevate your chicken breast recipes with oregano, chili powder, paprika, cumin, or Cajun seasoning. Oregano adds Mediterranean flair, while chili powder and smoked paprika brings smoky spice, cumin offers warmth and citrus, and Cajun seasoning infuses bold complexity.
- Chicken Options: You have the choice between boneless, skinless chicken breasts, which offer a lean and convenient option with a focus on the meat’s natural flavors, or bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts for those who crave extra richness and a delightful crispy contrast in texture. Adjust cooking time accordingly based on your preference. Aim for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for both variations.
How to Cook a Chicken Breast
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit (232 degrees Celsius). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat, and set aside.
Step 2: Tenderize the chicken breasts by poking 10-15 holes into each chicken breast using a cake tester or a toothpick.
Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together the salt, pepper, garlic, paprika, cayenne, and herbs. Sprinkle over each side of the chicken breasts.
Step 4: Set a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add oil; when glistening, add the chicken and sear on each side for 2-3 minutes or until a nice golden brown crust forms.
Step 5: Transfer to the prepared baking sheet and place in the oven for 18-22 minutes or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken breast reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 6: Remove from the oven and cover with foil or another baking sheet flipped upside down. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before transferring to a cutting board.
Step 7: Slice against the grain of the chicken, and serve immediately with rice or mashed potatoes.
Expert Tip
To ensure even cooking and optimal flavor, pound the chicken to an even thickness using a meat mallet, a rolling pin, or the bottom of a heavy skillet. Then, season both sides of the chicken liberally with salt and pepper or any spices that you prefer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Monitoring the internal temperature with a meat thermometer prevents overcooking, ensuring juicy baked chicken breast. Insert the probe into the thickest part, avoiding bone or fat. Aim for 160°F (71°C) for ideal results.
Yes, you can use a regular skillet, but ensure it’s well-oiled to prevent sticking and achieve a good sear.
Storage Info
To STORE cooked chicken breasts, place them in an airtight container in the fridge, where they’ll stay good for up to a week. For longer storage, you can FREEZE them for up to 6 months.
When REHEATING, ensure thorough cooking by either microwaving until warmed through or using the oven at a low temperature.
More Chicken Recipes to Try
How to Cook a Chicken Breast Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 – 1 1/2 lbs. boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 1/2 tsp. coarse kosher sea salt
- 1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tsp. garlic powder
- 3/4 tsp. paprika
- 1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp. Herbes de Provence or Italian seasoning*
- 1 tbsp. oil - avocado, grapeseed, canola
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit (232 degrees Celsius). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat, and set aside.
- Tenderize the chicken breasts by poking 10-15 holes into each chicken breast using a cake tester or a toothpick.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the salt, pepper, garlic, paprika, cayenne, and herbs. Sprinkle over each side of the chicken breasts.
- Set a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add oil; when glistening, add the chicken and sear on each side for 2-3 minutes or until a nice golden brown crust forms.
- Transfer to the prepared baking sheet and place in the oven for 18-22 minutes or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken breast reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Remove from the oven and cover with foil or another baking sheet flipped upside down. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before transferring to a cutting board.
- Slice against the grain of the chicken, and serve immediately with rice or mashed potatoes.
This method gave me the juiciest chicken I’ve had in ages. Searing in a pan then finishing in a hot oven made all the difference.