How to Bake Chicken Breast

Christine Albury

Wondering how to bake chicken breast? We’ll tell you what you need to know!

If you’ve ever had dry, tough chicken breast, you might be wondering what’s the secret to bake a delicious, juicy chicken breast.

The answer is…don’t overcook it! Chicken needs to be cooked until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Once the temperature reaches beyond that, dryness sets in. Since the size of chicken breasts varies, you’ll want to use an instant-read thermometer for accurate results.

Crispy Cast Iron Chicken Thighs Picture

Is There a Difference Between Baking Chicken Breast and Roasting It?

Originally, roasting referred to cooking food over a fire. Nowadays, we roast chicken by cooking it in the oven at a high temperature, usually 400°F or more.

Baking chicken breasts usually involves cooking them in an oven heated no higher than 375°F. It takes longer than roasting it at a higher temperature.

Many people use the terms “baking” and “roasting” interchangeably, however. So, in this article, we’ll talk about how to bake chicken breast at various temperatures.

Garlic Baked Chicken Picture

How to Bake Chicken Breast

One of the simplest ways to cook chicken breasts is to bake them uncovered at 400°F, for 25-30 minutes if they’re thick, or 15-20 minutes if they’re thin. The chicken is done when it’s no longer pink inside and registers 165°F.

The high temperature seals in the juices. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it.

Try this Garlic Baked Chicken recipe. Store leftover chicken breasts in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

Garlic Baked Chicken Image

How to Cook Healthy Chicken Breast in the Oven

Chicken breast meat is lean, but you can decrease the fat even further by using skinless breasts. Look for boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the store.

Another way to make a healthy chicken breast meal is to skip fattening sauces. Rub your chicken breast with olive oil on both sides, add seasoning and bake it in the oven, just until it’s done.

Garlic Baked Chicken Pic

Do you Need to Rinse Raw Chicken Breasts?

Nowadays, it’s no longer recommended to rinse chicken before cooking it. The reasoning is that you’ll end up splashing harmful bacteria around your kitchen sink.

The hot oven will kill any bacteria anyway.

Chicken Taco Salad Picture

How Long to Bake Chicken Breast at 350°F

Baking chicken breast at 350°F will take at least 30 minutes. Thicker pieces may require 40-45 minutes.

Chicken Taco Salad Image

How Long to Bake Chicken Breast at 375°F

If you have thick chicken breasts, bake them at 375°F for 35-40 minutes. You’ll need less time for thin ones.

Chicken Taco Salad Pic

Chicken Breast Recipes

You’ve got so many options with chicken breasts. Here are some ideas for Baked Chicken Seasonings -  or try out these great recipes!

Enjoy!

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Chicken Recipes

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Christine Albury

About Christine

I'm a mom of 5 and love making healthy baby food with wholesome, natural ingredients. In 2005 I started the Homemade Baby Food Recipes website, sharing recipes for everything from simple fruit purees to gourmet curries for the baby food connoisseur! You'll also find plenty of tried and tested tips to help encourage even the most reluctant diner to enjoy a wide range of nutritious new foods. If you enjoy cooking, then you will LOVE learning to become head chef for a very special little customer!