Ingredients:

  • 4 cups (950 ml) Water (lukewarm) (Optional Brine)
  • 1/4 cup (60 g) Kosher Salt (Optional Brine)
  • 1 Tbsp (15 g) Granulated Sugar (Optional Brine)
  • 4 medium Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (~680 g total)
  • 2 Tbsp (30 ml) Olive Oil (extra virgin)
  • 1 tsp (5 ml) Dried Thyme
  • 1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) Dried Rosemary (finely crushed)
  • 1 tsp (5 ml) Garlic Powder
  • 1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) Smoked Paprika (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) Black Pepper (freshly ground)
  • Salt (to taste, only if not brining)

Instructions:

  1. Level the Playing Field: Gently pound the chicken breasts' thickest part until the entire breast is about 3/4 inch (2 cm) thick. This ensures even cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels.
  2. (Optional Brine): Stir the water, kosher salt, and sugar until dissolved. Submerge the chicken and chill for 15-30 minutes. Remove, rinse under cold water, and pat aggressively dry.
  3. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Position an oven rack in the center. Line a 9x13-inch baking dish or sheet pan with foil.
  4. Create the Rub: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, dried herbs (thyme, rosemary), garlic powder, paprika, and pepper. If the chicken was not brined, add the required salt to this mixture now.
  5. Coat the Chicken: Brush the seasoned oil mixture evenly over all sides of the chicken breasts. Arrange them in the prepared baking dish, ensuring they have space between them.
  6. The Initial Bake: Bake for 18 minutes.
  7. Check the Temperature (Crucial Step): Insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the largest breast. Check the internal temperature. If it is 160°F (71°C), remove the tray. If lower, return to the oven and check every 2 minutes.
  8. The Resting Period: Once the thickest breast hits 160-162°F (71-72°C), remove the tray from the oven. Tent the dish loosely with foil. Allow the chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes. This carryover cooking raises the temperature to a safe 165°F (74°C) while locking in juices for a perfect, moist Baked Chicken Breast.
  9. Serve: Slice thinly against the grain and serve immediately.