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Juicy Baked Chicken Breast

This recipe features chicken breasts cooked with a simple sear followed by baking to achieve a tender, juicy interior and a golden, flavorful crust. Main ingredients include lean chicken, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and fresh lemon, creating a well-balanced, savory dish with bright citrus notes. The final texture is moist and firm, with a beautifully browned exterior that’s perfect for a quick, satisfying meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces chicken breasts preferably even thickness
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp olive oil good quality
  • 1 lemon lemon for squeezing fresh juice
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • fresh herbs thyme or rosemary optional

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Skillet
  • Meat thermometer
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Paper towels

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) and gather all your tools and ingredients.
  2. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels; this helps them sear properly and retain moisture.
  3. Mix salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder in a small bowl. Rub this spice blend generously all over each chicken breast.
    4 pieces chicken breasts
  4. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add a splash of olive oil until shimmering, and carefully place the chicken breasts in the pan.
    4 pieces chicken breasts
  5. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side, until the outside is golden brown and fragrant.
  6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until a meat thermometer registers 75°C (165°F) in the thickest part.
  7. While the chicken bakes, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the cooked breasts for brightness and flavor.
    4 pieces chicken breasts
  8. Remove the skillet from the oven, tent the chicken loosely with foil, and let it rest for 5 minutes to keep it juicy.
  9. Slice the chicken against the grain, and serve with your favorite greens or sides for a satisfying meal.

Notes

For extra flavor, sprinkle fresh herbs on top before serving. Adjust seasoning to taste, and experiment with different herbs for variety.