How to Bake Juicy Chicken Breast

By Leigh Ann Chatagnier

It's no wonder chicken is a go-to protein for so many people: it's easy, healthy, and can be used in so many dishes. However chicken breasts are lean, therefore they can dry out really easily leaving you with a rubbery piece of meat. I have the perfect cooking method that will leave you with a juicy breast in under 30 minutes with little-to-no fuss involved. You never have to eat a piece of dry chicken ever again!

(Image: Leigh Ann Chatagnier)

Things You'll Need

• 4 chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cracked pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Tip

• Feel free to substitute any vinegar. The key to this recipe is to tenderize the meat with the vinegar before cooking.

(Image: Leigh Ann Chatagnier)

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.

Combine all the ingredients by whisking together and then pour the marinade over the chicken in a baking dish. Make sure both sides of the chicken are well-coated. Let marinate for 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) in the refrigerator.

(Image: Leigh Ann Chatagnier)

Step 2: Bake the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in the oven and cook for 20 to 25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

Tip

• Internal temperature of the chicken should read 180 degrees with a meat thermometer.

(Image: Leigh Ann Chatagnier)

Step 3: Let the Chicken Rest Before Serving

Remove the chicken from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes.

Sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve immediately.

(Image: Leigh Ann Chatagnier)