BAKED CHICKEN BREASTS

 

 

prep time: 20 MINUTES

 

 cook time: 15 MINUTES

 

 total time: 35 MINUTES

 

 yield: 4 SERVINGS 1X

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INGREDIENTS

 

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness and brined in saltwater (*see easy instructions below)

• 1 Tablespoon melted butter or olive oil

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

• 1/2 teaspoon freshly-cracked black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (I prefer smoked paprika)

 

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Fill a large bowl with 1 quart of warm water and 1/4 cup kosher salt.  Stir to combine until most of the salt is absorbed.  Add the chicken breasts and let them sit in the mixture to brine for 15 minutes.  

2. Preheat oven to 450°F.

3. Place the chicken breasts in a single layer in a large baking dish.  Brush on both sides (turning once) evenly with the melted butter or olive oil.  In a separate small bowl, whisk the salt, pepper, garlic powder and paprika until combined.  Then sprinkle the mixture evenly over the chicken on both sides.

4. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink. 

5. Once the chicken is cooked, remove the pan from the oven, transfer the chicken to a clean plate, and loosely tent the plate with aluminum foil.  Let the chicken rest for at least 5-10 minutes.

6. Serve warm.