The cooking time for chicken breast depends on the method and thickness, but here are common guidelines: Baking in the oven:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Small chicken breasts (about 5 oz) take 18-20 minutes.
- Medium breasts (about 7 oz) take 20-22 minutes.
- Large breasts (about 9 oz) take 22-25 minutes.
- The internal temperature should reach 165°F to ensure doneness.
- Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to retain juices
Cooking in a skillet on the stove:
- For thick boneless breasts (~1 inch thick), cook about 8 minutes per side over medium-low heat.
- For thin breasts (~½ inch thick), cook about 4-5 minutes per side over medium heat.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to check for 165°F internal temperature.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving
Additional tips:
- Brining chicken breasts before baking can improve juiciness (15 minutes to several hours).
- Using a meat thermometer is the most reliable way to ensure chicken is fully cooked but not overdone
In summary, bake chicken breasts at 425°F for about 20-25 minutes depending on size, or pan-cook for 4-8 minutes per side depending on thickness, always aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F. Resting the meat after cooking is important for juicy results.
