What is the best way to cook chicken breast to keep it moist?

To keep chicken breast moist, consider brining it first. Pan-searing quickly to create a crust then finishing in the oven, or poaching gently, are effective methods. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) without overcooking.

How long does it take to cook chicken breast?

Cooking time varies by method and thickness. For average 6-8 oz breasts: pan-searing takes 6-8 minutes per side, while baking at 400°F (200°C) typically takes 20-30 minutes. Always cook until an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is reached.

How do you cook chicken breast without drying it out?

Prevent dryness by brining the chicken, marinating it, and cooking to precisely 165°F (74°C) internal temperature using a meat thermometer. High-heat searing followed by a lower-heat finish, or moist cooking methods like poaching, also help retain moisture.

What can you add to chicken breast for flavor?

Enhance flavor with marinades (e.g., lemon-herb, teriyaki), dry rubs (garlic, paprika, onion powder), or sauces (pesto, honey mustard, BBQ). Stuffing with cheese, herbs, or spinach also adds depth.

What can I serve with chicken breast?

Chicken breast pairs well with a variety of sides, including roasted or steamed vegetables (broccoli, asparagus), rice, quinoa, mashed potatoes, pasta, or a fresh green salad.

Is chicken breast healthy?

Yes, chicken breast is considered very healthy. It's a lean protein source, low in fat and calories, and rich in essential nutrients like niacin, vitamin B6, and selenium, making it excellent for muscle building and overall health.

Chicken Breast Recipe: The Secret to Perfectly Juicy Chicken 2025

Name: Chicken Breast Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 to 1.5 pounds total); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika is wonderful for a deeper flavor)

Chicken Breast Recipe

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

The humble chicken breast proves surprisingly powerful when paired with the right technique, creating juicy, flavorful results every time. This foundational recipe uses a simple sear-and-bake method to transform basic chicken into a delicious main course perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Author: Harmony
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 2 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Pan Seared, Baked
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 to 1.5 pounds total)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika is wonderful for a deeper flavor)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels. If your chicken breasts are very thick or uneven, place them between two pieces of plastic wrap and gently pound the thicker end with a rolling pin or meat mallet until they are an even 1-inch thickness.
Season Generously: Drizzle the chicken with olive oil and rub it all over. In a small bowl, mix the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Sprinkle this seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken, pressing gently to help it adhere.
Preheat and Cook: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats, place a large, oven-safe skillet (like cast iron or stainless steel) over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the chicken breasts. You should hear a confident sizzle. Sear, without moving them, for 3-4 minutes, until a golden-brown crust forms.
Flip and Finish in the Oven: Flip the chicken breasts. Immediately transfer the entire skillet to the preheated oven.
Bake to Perfection: Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) on an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part. The temperature will carry over to 165°F (74°C) while resting.

Notes

Do not skip the thermometer! It is the only guaranteed way to achieve a juicy chicken breast recipe instead of a dry one. Guessing doneness by time or color is a recipe for disappointment. Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
Calories: 230
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 590mg
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 1g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 35g
Cholesterol: 85mg

Find it online: https://harmonymeal.com/chicken-breast-recipe/