To bake chicken breasts:
- Preheat the oven to about 400-450°F (200-230°C).
- Optionally, brine the chicken in a saltwater mixture for 15 minutes to 6 hours to keep it juicy.
- Pat the chicken dry, then brush both sides with olive oil or melted butter.
- Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and other preferred spices.
- Place the chicken in a single layer on a baking dish lined with parchment or foil.
- Bake uncovered for about 15-22 minutes, depending on thickness, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Let the chicken rest covered loosely with foil for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
This method results in juicy, flavorful chicken and can be adjusted with varying seasonings or a broil step for a crispier top. Use a meat thermometer for best results. Would more detailed seasoning options or specific bake time for different chicken sizes be helpful?
