Description
This juicy baked chicken breast will make you swear off takeout forever. Secret technique inside that guarantees tender, flavorful results every single time.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 8 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (sweet or smoked)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 4 cups cold water (for brine)
- ¼ cup kosher salt (for brine)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for brine)
Instructions
- Prepare brine by dissolving ¼ cup kosher salt and 2 tablespoons sugar in 4 cups cold water. Submerge chicken breasts and refrigerate for 15 minutes to 2 hours. Rinse and pat dry.
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Let chicken sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes.
- Mix garlic powder, paprika, oregano, thyme, salt, pepper, brown sugar, and cayenne (if using) in a small bowl.
- Coat chicken breasts with olive oil on both sides, then generously season with the spice mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Place seasoned chicken breasts on a lined baking sheet, ensuring they don’t touch each other.
- Bake for 16-22 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing or serving.