Baked Chicken Breasts

Juicy, tender, and bursting with flavor, these Baked Chicken Breasts are the perfect go-to recipe for a quick and satisfying meal. Paired with a savory pan sauce, this dish is simple to prepare yet impressively delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Ready in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Juicy and flavorful: Baking the chicken at high heat locks in moisture, while the Creole seasoning adds a delightful kick.
• Versatile: Serve it with your favorite sides, from rice and vegetables to pasta or salad.
• Healthy: A protein-packed dish that’s both nutritious and satisfying.

Ingredients

• ½ teaspoon coarse sea salt or to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 5-ounce skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
• 1 pinch Creole seasoning (such as Tony Chachere’s®), or more to taste
• 1 tablespoon chicken broth, or more as needed

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Coat each chicken breast thoroughly with olive oil and season both sides with salt and Creole seasoning. Place the chicken breasts in a broiler pan.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Flip the chicken breasts over and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the center is no longer pink.
4. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Transfer the cooked chicken to a serving plate, leaving the juices in the pan.
6. Add chicken broth to the broiler pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom to create a savory pan sauce. Adjust the broth amount as needed for the desired consistency.
7. Spoon the pan sauce over the chicken before serving to enhance the flavor.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Herb-flavored: Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the seasoning for an aromatic twist.
• Spicy kick: Use extra Creole seasoning or sprinkle some cayenne pepper for more heat.
• Citrusy touch: Add a squeeze of lemon juice to the pan sauce for a bright, zesty flavor.
• Garlic-infused: Mix minced garlic into the olive oil before coating the chicken for a robust garlic flavor.
• Cheesy option: Top with shredded Parmesan or mozzarella cheese during the last 5 minutes of baking.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or water to keep the chicken moist.

FAQs

1. How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Coating the chicken with olive oil and baking at high heat helps retain moisture. Using a meat thermometer ensures it’s not overcooked.

2. Can I use bone-in chicken breasts?

Yes, but the cooking time will increase. Bake until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

3. Can I substitute the Creole seasoning?

Absolutely! Use your favorite seasoning blend, such as Cajun, Italian, or even a simple mix of paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.

4. What sides pair well with this dish?

Mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad are excellent options.

5. Can I make the pan sauce thicker?

Yes, simmer the sauce for a few minutes to reduce and thicken it, or whisk in a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water.

6. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the Creole seasoning and chicken broth you use are gluten-free.

7. Can I marinate the chicken beforehand?

While not necessary, marinating the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a few hours can enhance the flavor.

8. What can I do with leftovers?

Leftovers can be shredded and used in sandwiches, salads, or wraps for quick meals.

9. Can I grill instead of bake?

Yes, grilling works well. Cook over medium heat until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

10. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double the ingredients and use a larger pan to avoid overcrowding.

Conclusion

Baked Chicken Breasts are a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The juicy chicken and savory pan sauce make it a versatile recipe that pairs well with various sides. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious simplicity!

Baked Chicken Breasts

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• Author: Asma
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

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Description

Juicy and perfectly seasoned baked chicken breasts, served with a savory pan sauce made from the flavorful drippings. A simple and healthy dinner option that’s quick to prepare and versatile enough for any meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1/2 teaspoon coarse sea salt (or to taste)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 (5-ounce) skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
• 1 pinch Creole seasoning (e.g., Tony Chachere’s®), or more to taste
• 1 tablespoon chicken broth (or more as needed)

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Instructions

• Preheat the Oven:
  Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Season the Chicken:
  Coat each chicken breast thoroughly with olive oil. Sprinkle both sides with salt and Creole seasoning.
• Bake the Chicken:
  Arrange the chicken breasts in a broiler pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then flip them over and bake for another 15 minutes or until the center is no longer pink.
• Check Doneness:
  Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Prepare the Pan Sauce:
  Transfer the cooked chicken to a serving plate, leaving the juices in the pan. Add chicken broth to the pan and scrape up the browned bits from the bottom, stirring to create a flavorful sauce. Adjust the broth quantity for your desired sauce consistency.
• Serve:
  Spoon the pan sauce over the chicken breasts and serve warm. Pair with roasted vegetables, rice, or a salad for a complete meal.

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Notes

• For enhanced flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, Creole seasoning, and garlic for up to 2 hours before cooking.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice to the pan sauce for a bright, tangy twist.
• This recipe works well for meal prep and stays juicy when reheated.