General Baking Guidelines for Chicken Breast
Baking time for chicken breast depends on several factors including size, thickness, and oven temperature. Here are the most common scenarios:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (6-8 oz / 170-225g each)
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-30 minutes
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18-25 minutes
- Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes
- Bone-In, Skin-On Chicken Breasts
- Add 5-10 minutes to the cooking times above
How to Check for Doneness
Always use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is safely cooked. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the meat.
Tips for Best Results
- Pound thicker breasts to an even thickness for more consistent cooking
- Let chicken rest for 5-10 minutes after baking for juicier results
- Brush with oil or marinade before baking to prevent drying out