Cooking chicken breast in the oven is a straightforward and healthy way to prepare this versatile protein. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to cook chicken breast in the oven at 350°F, along with some valuable tips to ensure your chicken turns out moist and flavorful.
Preparation
Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following ingredients and equipment:
Seasonings: Italian seasoning, seasoned salt, paprika, black pepper, or any other seasonings of your choice.
Baking Pan: A 9 x 13-inch baking pan or a similar-sized dish.
Instant Read Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
Parchment Paper or Foil: To line the baking pan for easy cleanup[1][2][4].
Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. This temperature is a good balance between cooking time and preventing the chicken from drying out[2][4].
Prepare the Chicken: Lightly grease a rimmed baking pan or line it with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, combine the chicken breasts, olive oil, and your chosen seasonings. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated[1].
Season the Chicken: If you prefer additional seasonings, now is the time to add them. Common seasonings include garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper[5].
Place in the Baking Pan: Transfer the seasoned chicken breasts to the prepared baking pan. Make sure they are not overlapping to ensure even cooking[1][3].
Bake the Chicken: Bake the chicken breasts uncovered at 350°F. The cooking time will depend on the size of the chicken breasts:
For an 8-ounce chicken breast, it will take about 25 to 30 minutes to reach an internal temperature of 165°F[2][4].
Check the Internal Temperature: Use an instant read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F to be considered safe for consumption[1][2][4].
Rest the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, making it more tender and juicy[1][4][5].
Additional Tips
Bring to Room Temperature: While not mandatory, letting the chicken sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking can help it cook more evenly[4].
Do Not Cover: It is generally recommended not to cover the chicken while it is baking, as this can prevent the skin from crisping up and may result in a soggy texture[4].
Use the Right Pan: Use a baking pan that allows for good air circulation around the chicken. A rimmed baking pan or a dish lined with parchment paper is ideal[1][3].
Most Important Facts About Cooking Chicken Breast at 350°F
Cooking Time: An 8-ounce chicken breast will take about 25 to 30 minutes to cook at 350°F until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F[2][4].
Internal Temperature: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to be safe for consumption[1][2][4].
Resting Time: Let the chicken rest for 5 to 10 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute[1][4][5].
Even Cooking: Make sure the chicken breasts are not overlapping in the baking pan to ensure even cooking[1][3].
No Covering: Do not cover the chicken while it is baking to prevent a soggy texture and to allow the skin to crisp up[4].
By following these steps and tips, you can achieve perfectly cooked, moist, and flavorful chicken breasts every time you bake them at 350°F.
