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Juicy Baked Chicken Breasts

This recipe features chicken breasts cooked with a simple sear and oven bake method that ensures tender, juicy meat with a golden exterior. Main ingredients include lean chicken breasts seasoned with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, finished with a squeeze of lemon for brightness. The final dish is moist, flavorful, and visually appealing with a crisp, golden crust.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces chicken breasts preferably even thickness
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil good quality
  • 1 lemon lemon for squeezing over before serving
  • 2 cloves garlic minced, optional
  • 1 tablespoon fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, optional

Equipment

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

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) and set a skillet on the stove over medium-high heat.
  2. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture—this helps them sear nicely.
  3. Generously season both sides of each chicken breast with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika, pressing the spices into the meat.
  4. Add a tablespoon of olive oil to the hot skillet and swirl to coat the surface evenly.
  5. Place the chicken breasts into the skillet and sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they develop a golden-brown crust and smell fragrant.
  6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 75°C (165°F).
  7. Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes to retain its juices.
  8. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the rested chicken, add minced garlic and herbs if using, then slice and serve immediately with your favorite greens.

Notes

Ensure the chicken reaches the correct internal temperature to avoid under or overcooking. Adjust baking time for thicker or thinner breasts.