The secret to making ultra-juicy chicken breasts is in two simple tricks: a dry brine with kosher salt and baking them just until the right temperature. By removing them at 155°F and letting them rest, you get tender, flavorful meat every single time.
Perfect as a meal prep protein, for salads, sandwiches, or wraps, these chicken breasts are a go-to for busy weeknights and healthy dinners. With only a handful of ingredients and one baking dish, this recipe is simplicity and flavor at its best. Don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular in your rotation!
Full Recipe:
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4 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 lbs total)
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1 tablespoon kosher salt
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1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
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1 tablespoon olive oil
Directions:
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Lay the chicken breasts on a cutting board. Generously season both sides with salt by sprinkling it evenly from about 12 inches above.
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Let the chicken sit for 15 minutes to dry brine while you preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
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Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Place them dry-side down on a rimmed baking sheet or casserole dish. Pat the tops dry as well.
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Drizzle the tops with olive oil and sprinkle with black pepper.
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Bake uncovered for 20–30 minutes, depending on thickness, until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads at least 155°F.
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Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes to allow the internal temp to rise to 165°F.
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Slice and serve, or use in your favorite recipes like salads, pastas, or wraps.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 208 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Why Juicy Baked Chicken Breasts Deserve a Place in Your Recipe Repertoire
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts have long been a staple in home kitchens across the world, thanks to their high protein content, versatility, and ease of preparation. However, they also have a reputation for turning out dry, rubbery, or bland—especially when baked. This juicy baked chicken breast recipe flips that narrative entirely.
With the right techniques, baking chicken breasts can yield incredibly moist, flavorful meat that’s perfect for a wide range of dishes. Whether you’re prepping lunches for the week, feeding a family on a busy weeknight, or simply looking for a dependable, healthy dinner option, this recipe delivers consistent, delicious results.
The Science Behind Dry Chicken Breasts
Understanding why chicken breasts often end up dry is the first step to overcoming the problem. Chicken breast meat is very lean, meaning it contains little fat to help keep it moist during cooking. Unlike darker cuts like thighs or drumsticks, the white meat of the breast is more susceptible to drying out quickly when overcooked.
Most home cooks aim for the USDA-recommended internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), but what many don’t realize is that the chicken continues cooking after it’s removed from the oven due to residual heat—also known as carryover cooking. If you remove the chicken exactly at 165°F, by the time it’s rested and ready to serve, you’re likely well past that point.
This is why a key to this recipe’s success is removing the chicken at 155°F and allowing it to rest. The internal temperature will naturally rise to the safe 165°F threshold without crossing into overcooked territory. The result is succulent, juicy meat that doesn’t require fancy marinades or sauces to impress.
The Secret of Dry Brining
The second key technique that makes this recipe foolproof is dry brining. Unlike a traditional wet brine that uses a saltwater solution to infuse moisture into the meat, a dry brine involves rubbing or sprinkling salt directly onto the meat’s surface and letting it rest for a period before cooking.
This method is particularly effective for lean proteins like chicken breasts. The salt initially draws moisture to the surface, dissolving itself in the process, and then the meat reabsorbs that salted moisture. The result? Improved flavor penetration and more tender texture without making the meat waterlogged.
And the best part? It requires no extra bowls, bags, or fridge space. A simple 15-minute rest on a cutting board while your oven preheats is all it takes.
Perfectly Simple Seasoning
One of the most appealing aspects of this juicy baked chicken breast recipe is its simplicity. The seasoning profile—salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil—might sound underwhelming at first, but it’s intentionally minimal to highlight the natural flavor of the chicken and to make it a versatile base for future meals.
This simple seasoning not only enhances the meat’s natural flavor but also pairs beautifully with a wide array of sauces, herbs, and marinades after cooking. Whether you want to top it with a garlic herb butter, slice it into a Caesar salad, or shred it into tacos, the neutral seasoning allows for maximum flexibility.
Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Meal Prep
Meal prep is a weekly routine for many households, and chicken breasts are often the go-to protein. Unfortunately, too many meal preppers end up with dried-out leftovers that require heavy sauces or reheating tricks to make them edible.
This juicy baked chicken, on the other hand, stays moist even after refrigeration and gentle reheating. It’s great for slicing and adding to sandwiches, wraps, grain bowls, or even a quick pasta stir-fry.
If stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, the chicken stays fresh for up to three days. For reheating, the best results come from gently warming it in a microwave under a damp paper towel or adding it directly to a warm sauce on the stovetop.
How to Customize the Recipe for Different Diets
This baked chicken breast recipe is inherently low-carb, gluten-free, dairy-free, and high in protein, making it a universal choice for a variety of dietary needs. But what if you want to personalize it even more?
For keto or paleo diets: Use avocado oil instead of olive oil for a richer flavor and even higher smoke point.
For a Mediterranean twist: Add a pinch of dried oregano and a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving.
For spice lovers: Sprinkle in some paprika, cayenne, or chili flakes for a bit of heat.
For extra-herby flavor: Mix in dried thyme, rosemary, or basil to the seasoning.
The simplicity of this base recipe allows you to adapt it without compromising on its core strength: juicy, well-seasoned meat.
Best Serving Suggestions for Baked Chicken Breasts
Because of its mild flavor and tender texture, this baked chicken can be served in a wide variety of ways. Here are a few ideas to inspire your meal planning:
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On salads: Slice thin and serve atop a fresh garden salad, Caesar salad, or Greek salad.
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In grain bowls: Combine with quinoa, brown rice, or couscous and your favorite roasted veggies.
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In wraps or pitas: Add hummus, cucumbers, tomatoes, and greens for a Mediterranean-style wrap.
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In tacos or burritos: Shred and pair with guacamole, salsa, and beans for a Tex-Mex spin.
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With pasta: Toss with olive oil, garlic, and pasta for a protein-packed weeknight dinner.
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As-is with sides: Serve alongside mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or steamed greens.
The versatility of this recipe means it never feels repetitive, even if it becomes a weekly staple.
Tips for Perfect Results Every Time
To get the most out of this baked chicken breast recipe, keep the following tips in mind:
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Choose even-sized breasts: Uniform thickness ensures all pieces cook at the same rate. If necessary, pound thicker breasts slightly to flatten.
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Use an oven thermometer: Oven temperatures can vary significantly, and using a thermometer ensures accuracy.
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Let it rest: Never skip the 10-minute resting period. It allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender.
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Avoid overcrowding the pan: Leave space between the breasts so they roast rather than steam.
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Invest in a digital thermometer: It’s a small tool that makes a big difference when cooking meat to perfection.
Conclusion: The Chicken Breast Recipe That Will Change the Way You Cook
This juicy baked chicken breast recipe is more than just another weeknight meal—it’s a foundational technique that can transform your home cooking. By mastering two simple tricks—dry brining and precise temperature control—you unlock the full potential of a humble chicken breast.
Forget dry, boring chicken. This method yields meat that is succulent, flavorful, and adaptable to any dish or cuisine. It’s an ideal go-to for meal preppers, busy families, fitness-focused eaters, or anyone who wants delicious, healthy protein without the fuss.
Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned home chef, this recipe is a reliable winner. Make it once, and you’ll understand why it’s earned a permanent spot in countless kitchens around the world.
