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–+ servings
Slices of chicken breast.
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4.65 from 17 votes

How to Cook a Chicken Breast Recipe

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!
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time35 minutes
Course: Main Dishes
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free, Dairy Free
Servings: 4 chicken breasts
Calories: 239kcal
Author: Andrea

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.

Notes

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.

Nutrition

Calories: 239kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 37g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0.04g | Cholesterol: 109mg | Sodium: 916mg | Potassium: 687mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 0.2g | Vitamin A: 621IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 38mg | Iron: 2mg