How Long Does it Take to Bake Chicken in the Oven?
How long does it take to bake chicken in the oven?
The answer to this question will vary depending on several factors, such as the size of the chicken, the power of your oven and the type of seasonings used. However, a good rule of thumb is to add about 20 minutes per pound of chicken.
Make sure to preheat your oven before placing the chicken in it. This will help to ensure the meat is cooked properly and avoid burns or other complications.
Pound the chicken: Before you start cooking, be sure to pound your chicken breasts to an even thickness. This will tenderize the meat and also ensure that they cook evenly in the oven.
Use a meat mallet or your fist to pound the chicken to an even thickness (key tip for tender and juicy chicken). You do not want it too thin, because this will cause the juices to run out too quickly when you cut into the meat.
Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet or in a shallow roasting pan lined with foil and parchment paper. Drizzle with oil and sprinkle with seasonings. Flip and bake in the oven for 18 minutes or until the surface is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165degF.
If the chicken breasts are very large, you may need to increase the time by about 15 minutes. This is because the larger pieces of chicken will be more difficult to cook properly.
Brush the chicken with olive oil and then season it with a mixture of salt, pepper, garlic powder, Italian spices and paprika. You can also add some herbs, such as thyme or rosemary.
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before cutting into it. This will allow the juices to redistribute and help to lock in more of the delicious flavor.
Refrigerate and store leftovers: If you have any baked chicken left over, you can refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze it for later use. Once cooled down, it should keep in the freezer for up to 4 months.
Brine the Chicken: If you’re using a whole chicken, brine it for at least 4 hours before cooking to help prevent it from drying out too quickly and to enhance its flavor. If you’re using a stuffed chicken, be sure to brine it in water for an additional 30 minutes.
During cooking, keep an eye on the chicken’s internal temperature to avoid over-cooking or over-drying it. If the meat is getting too dry, simply turn down the heat in your oven or check your thermometer again.
Once the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165degF, remove from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing and serving. This will help to lock in the moisture and the flavor of your seasonings.
You can easily serve these juicy, moist and tender chicken breasts on their own or use them as a base for other recipes. They are a great meal prep recipe that can be made ahead of time and enjoyed at any time.
