Juicy Baked Chicken Breasts Recipe

Brining the Chicken

1. Prepare the Brine: In a large bowl, combine 4 cups of water, 1/4 cup of salt, and 1/4 cup of brown sugar. Stir until the salt and sugar are completely dissolved.
2. Brine the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the brine, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours.
3. Rinse and Dry: After brining, remove the chicken breasts from the brine and rinse them under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels.

Preparing the Chicken

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Rub the olive oil over the chicken breasts, then sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over both sides of each breast.

Baking the Chicken

1. Arrange in Baking Dish: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer in a baking dish.
2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the chicken breasts reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The exact cooking time will depend on the size and thickness of the chicken breasts.
3. Rest: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices, keeping the chicken moist and flavorful.

Serving

1. Serve: Serve the Juicy Baked Chicken Breasts with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Conclusion

This Juicy Baked Chicken Breasts recipe is a simple yet effective way to ensure your chicken is always flavorful and moist. The brining process adds extra juiciness, while the seasoning blend provides a delicious taste. Perfect for any meal, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!