Bake chicken breasts at 425°F for 17 to 20 minutes. The high heat is crucial for achieving juicy chicken breasts. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part before removing from the oven.
If you’ve ever wondered how long to bake chicken breast at 425°F for that perfect juicy result, you’re in the right place.
You’re not alone if you’ve ever struggled to achieve that perfect, juicy chicken breast in the oven. We faced the same dilemma until we discovered a foolproof method that rivals the grilling results.
In this cooking guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to make incredibly juicy chicken breasts using a simple marinade and high-heat baking at 425. No grill? No problem!
Highlights:
- Baking chicken at 425°F is the secret to achieving that grilled juiciness in the oven.
- Marinate with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, black pepper, and salt for an easy and flavorful boost.
- Ziplock bags make marinating a breeze, and a quick massage ensures even coating.
- Bake for 17 to 20 minutes for perfectly juicy chicken with a crisp exterior.
- Allow your chicken to rest for five minutes after baking to lock in the flavorful juices.
Can you cook chicken breast at 425?
Yes, you can cook chicken breast at 425°F (220°C). You can bake chicken breasts at 425°F to achieve juicy and flavorful results. The high heat helps seal the juices and creates a nice crust on the outside while ensuring that the chicken cooks through in a relatively short time.
Just be sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken using a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches at least 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part.
How long to bake chicken breast at 425?
Bake chicken breasts at 425°F for 17 to 20 minutes, ensuring an internal temperature of 165°F for juicy perfection.
How to bake chicken breast at 425?
For juicy oven-baked chicken breasts at 425°F, marinate with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Bake for 17-20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, then let it rest for five minutes before slicing.
Bake Chicken Breast at 425 Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment Used:
- Baking sheet
- Plastic ziplock bags
- Bowl for mixing marinade
- Serrated knife (for slicing)
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts
- Olive oil
- Balsamic vinegar
- Black pepper
- Salt
Instructions
Step 1: Marinating the Chicken
- Start with your chicken breasts and marinate them for added flavor. Mix olive oil, balsamic vinegar, black pepper, and salt in a bowl.
- Place the chicken breasts in a plastic ziplock bag to minimize cross-contamination.
- Pour the marinade into the bag with the chicken, seal it, and massage the chicken to ensure it's well-coated. You can refrigerate this for a few hours, overnight for a deeper flavor, or proceed immediately.
Step 2: Preparation and Baking
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Open the ziplock bag, remove the chicken, and place it on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 17 to 20 minutes. The high heat is the key to achieving juicy chicken breasts.
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part.
Step 3: Resting
Once baked, let the chicken rest for five minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the chicken moist.
Step 4: Serving
Cut the chicken against the grain for the most tender slices. A serrated knife works well for this. Enjoy the juicy perfection! Whether on its own, in salads, or atop pastas, this chicken is versatile and delicious.
FAQs for Foolproof Oven-Baked Chicken Breast at 425
Can I use a different marinade for the chicken?
While I used olive oil and balsamic vinegar mixture to provide a simple and delicious flavor, feel free to experiment with your favorite marinades or seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
Can I marinate the chicken for a shorter time if I’m in a hurry?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken for a shorter time if needed. Even a brief marination will enhance the flavor, but allowing it to marinate for a few hours or overnight is recommended for the best results.
Why is high heat (425°F) significant in this recipe?
High heat is crucial for sealing in the juices and achieving a juicy interior while creating a flavorful crust on the outside. It helps cook the chicken quickly, preventing it from drying out.
Can I use bone-in chicken breasts with this recipe?
The cooking time may vary slightly for bone-in chicken breasts, so using a meat thermometer is advisable to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Is it necessary to let the chicken rest after baking?
Yes, allowing the chicken to rest for five minutes is important. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a moist and tender result when you cut into it.
What should I do if my chicken breasts vary in thickness?
If your chicken breasts have different thicknesses, consider pounding them slightly to create a uniform thickness. This will ensure even cooking so all portions reach the desired internal temperature.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
We tried thawing chicken breasts before marinating and baking them. If using frozen chicken, ensure it’s completely thawed and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How can I prevent my chicken from sticking to the baking sheet?
Placing parchment paper or lightly greasing the baking sheet can help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
What side dishes pair well with this oven-baked chicken breast?
This juicy chicken goes well with various sides, such as roasted vegetables, quinoa, rice, or a fresh salad. Experiment with different pairings to suit your preferences.
Conclusion
With this foolproof method, you’ll no longer miss out on the juiciness that grilling offers. Try this recipe and savor the perfection of a well-baked chicken breast.
You can enjoy the flavor of grilled chicken without using an outdoor grill by using a simple marinade and a hot oven. This versatile chicken breast recipe at 425 fits seamlessly into various cuisines, making it a go-to for any occasion.
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