1-Step 1: Brining the Chicken Begin by brining to lock in moisture. Fill a bowl with 2 cups lukewarm water and 1/4 cup kosher salt, stirring until the salt mostly dissolves. Add 2 cups cold water or ice cubes to cool it, then place the chicken breasts in the mix and let them sit for 15 minutes or up to 6 hours in the fridge if you’re planning ahead. Once done, rinse with cold water and pat dry to remove excess salt.

2-Step 2: Preheating the Oven Next, preheat your oven to 450°F. This high heat helps achieve a crispier crust while keeping the inside juicy, making it a favorite for quick dinners.

3-Step 3: Preparing and Seasoning Place the chicken breasts in a single layer on a baking dish or thick metal baking sheet. Brush both sides with the melted butter or olive oil for added flavor and moisture. In a small bowl, mix 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon freshly-ground black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, then sprinkle it evenly on both sides of the chicken.

4-Step 4: Baking the Chicken Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, based on thickness, until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink. Use a cooking thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety. If you want a golden crust, broil for the last 3 to 5 minutes, but keep an eye on it to avoid burning.

5-Step 5: Resting and Serving Remove the chicken from the oven and transfer it to a plate. Loosely cover with aluminum foil and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes so the juices redistribute, making the meat even more tender. For more tips on achieving perfect results, visit this external resource on baking techniques.