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Juicy Oven-Baked Chicken Breast

This recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts cooked using a simple searing and baking method. Main ingredients include chicken breasts seasoned with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and finished with a squeeze of lemon for brightness. The final dish has a golden exterior with moist, flavorful meat inside, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
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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
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil good quality
  • 1 lemon lemon for squeezing over before serving
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Equipment

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

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) and pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels for a good sear.
  2. In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder to create a flavorful seasoning blend.
  3. Rub the seasoning mixture generously all over the chicken breasts, ensuring an even coating on both sides.
  4. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of olive oil, watching it shimmer as it heats.
  5. Place the chicken breasts into the hot skillet, searing for 2-3 minutes per side until they develop a golden-brown crust and smell fragrant.
  6. Transfer the skillet with the seared chicken to the preheated oven, baking for 15-20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).
  7. Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes; this helps keep it juicy and allows the juices to redistribute.
  8. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the rested chicken to brighten the flavors before slicing.
  9. Slice the chicken breasts and serve with your favorite greens or sides for a quick, satisfying meal.

Notes

Using a meat thermometer is key to ensuring perfect doneness and juiciness. Feel free to add herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra aroma.