Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast Recipe
Cooking boneless, skinless chicken breasts is a breeze, offering a versatile base for countless delicious meals. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers simplicity and flavor. The ease of preparation and endless seasoning options make this dish a staple in any kitchen.
Ingredients and Preparation
To begin, gather your ingredients: olive oil or olive oil spray, four boneless, skinless chicken breasts, kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and your choice of seasoning or dry rub. You can opt for smoked paprika, mustard powder, BBQ rub, or Mexican seasoning, depending on your taste preferences.
Selecting the right chicken breasts is crucial. Look for breasts that are roughly the same size to ensure even cooking. When it comes to the baking dish, a 9×11-inch Pyrex or casserole dish works perfectly. Ensure the dish is large enough to hold the chicken breasts in a single layer without overlapping.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the oven is hot and ready to cook the chicken evenly.
Next, place the chicken breasts in your baking dish. Arrange them in a single layer, allowing enough space for the heat to circulate and cook the meat uniformly.
Generously season both sides of the chicken with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. This is where you can get creative with your spices. Choose seasonings that complement your meal plan, whether you prefer a smoky BBQ flavor or a zesty Mexican twist.
Coating the parchment paper with olive oil is a crucial step. Either spray the parchment paper with olive oil spray or use a brush to spread 1-2 teaspoons of olive oil evenly across the surface. This ensures the chicken remains moist and prevents sticking.
Place the parchment paper, oiled side down, over the chicken breasts. Tuck the parchment around the edges of the chicken like fitting a sheet to a mattress. This snug fit helps retain moisture, creating a tender and juicy result.
Bake the chicken for 20 to 25 minutes, depending on the thickness of the breasts. Thicker pieces may require a bit more time, so adjust accordingly. The goal is to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
Once baked, serve the chicken immediately or let it cool before storing it in the fridge. These versatile chicken breasts can be sliced for salads, shredded for tacos, or used in chicken salad. The possibilities are truly endless!
Recipe Tips & Frequently Asked Questions
- Ensuring moist and flavorful chicken breasts:
- Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking to retain juices.
- Tips for checking doneness:
- Cut into the thickest part of the breast; the juices should run clear.
- The meat should be opaque with no pinkness.
- Variations in seasoning for different cuisines:
- Try Italian herbs for a Mediterranean twist.
- Use curry powder and cumin for an Indian flavor profile.
- Can I use bone-in chicken?
- Yes, adjust the baking time to ensure the chicken cooks through. Bone-in pieces may take longer.
- How should I store leftovers?
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out.
- Can this recipe be made ahead?
- Absolutely, bake the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge. It’s perfect for meal prepping.
What to Serve With This Recipe
Pair these flavorful chicken breasts with a variety of sides. Fresh salads, roasted vegetables, and grains like quinoa or rice complement the chicken perfectly. For added flavor, consider homemade sauces or dressings. A tangy vinaigrette, creamy garlic sauce, or spicy salsa can elevate the dish.
Variations and Customizations
Experiment with different flavor profiles by trying international seasoning blends. For a Mediterranean touch, use oregano, thyme, and lemon zest. For an Asian-inspired dish, opt for soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. You can also incorporate additional ingredients like sliced bell peppers, onions, or fresh herbs to enhance the dish further.
This boneless, skinless chicken breast recipe is a versatile, flavorful, and simple meal option that suits any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a meal prep staple, this recipe is adaptable to your taste preferences. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different seasonings and serving suggestions to make it your own. Enjoy the endless possibilities and the delicious results!
INGREDIENTS
- Olive oil or olive oil spray
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Kosher salt and pepper
- Any seasoning or dry rub of your choice (smoked paprika, mustard powder, BBQ rub, Mexican seasoning, ANYTHING)
- 1 sheet of parchment paper
INSTRUCTIONS
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Place the chicken breasts in a 9×11-inch Pyrex or casserole dish, arranging them in a single layer.
Generously season both sides of the chicken with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and your preferred blend of spices. This is the perfect opportunity to get creative with flavors, so choose spices that complement your meal plan.
Take a sheet of parchment paper and coat one side with a light layer of olive oil or spray it with olive oil spray. Spread the oil evenly across the parchment.
Flip the parchment paper over and place it directly on top of the chicken breasts, ensuring the oiled side is in contact with the meat. Tuck the parchment paper around the edges of the chicken, much like fitting a sheet to a mattress, making sure it’s snug on all sides.
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, adjusting the time based on the thickness of your chicken breasts.
Once baked, serve the chicken immediately, or let it cool and store it in the fridge. These chicken breasts are versatile; they can be sliced for salads, shredded for tacos, or used in chicken salad. The possibilities are endless!
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast Recipes
Ingredients
- Olive oil or olive oil spray
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Kosher salt and pepper
- Any seasoning or dry rub of your choice smoked paprika, mustard powder, BBQ rub, Mexican seasoning, ANYTHING
- 1 sheet of parchment paper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400F degrees.
- Place the chicken in a 9×11 pyrex or casserole dish
- Season the chicken on both sides with kosher salt and pepper, and whatever spices speak to you.
- Coat a sheet of parchment paper with olive oil spray or about 1 – 2 teaspoons of olive oil. Spread it around evenly.
- Flip the parchment paper over and lay it on top of the chicken with the oil side touching the chicken. Tuck it in like you would make a bed with a fitted sheet, with the parchment paper getting tucked under the chicken on all 4 sides. Press it down so the parchment with the oil spray is touching the top of the chicken.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes depending on how thick your chicken breasts are.
- Eat as is, or keep in the fridge to cut up for salads, shred into tacos, chicken salad, etc etc. There are no wrong answers here!