Juicy Oven Baked Chicken Breasts

Step 1

Preheat oven to 425F.

Step 2

Place chicken breasts in a large bowl and set aside.

Step 3

In a large measuring cup or a mixing bowl combine lukewarm water and salt; stir and pour over chicken breasts. Set aside for 20 to 30 minutes. You can also also cover the bowl and refrigerate for 2 hours.

Step 4

In the meantime, prepare the Chicken Seasoning Blend.

Step 5

Combine salt, fresh ground pepper, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried basil, dried rosemary, and dried parsley in a small bowl; using a fork, stir around the seasonings until thoroughly incorporated. Set aside.

Step 6

Pour out the salt water and rinse each chicken breasts under cold water; pat dry with paper towels.

Step 7

Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and rub the olive oil all over each chicken breast.

Step 8

Sprinkle seasoning blend evenly over the chicken breasts on all sides. You don't have to use the entire seasoning blend; use as much as you like.

Step 9

Transfer to the oven and cook for 22 to 25 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165F. Thinner breasts will need less time, thicker breasts might need a little more time in the oven. Start checking for doneness at the 20 minute mark.

Step 10

For a browned, crispy top, set your oven to broil on high for the final 4 minutes and broil the chicken until golden on top.

Step 11

Remove from oven and transfer chicken breasts to a serving plate.

Step 12

Let chicken rest for 10 minutes before cutting.

Step 13

Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve.