Step 1

In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, cayenne pepper, salt and pepper.

Step 2

Place the chicken breasts in a large zip top bag and pour the seasoning over the chicken. Shake the chicken to coat.

Step 3

Transfer the chicken to the refrigerator (still in the bag) and marinade for 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.

Step 4

Preheat oven to 425˚ Fahrenheit.

Step 5

Remove the chicken from the bag and arrange on a baking sheet lined with foil. Place 1 tablespoon butter on top of each chicken breast.

Step 6

Bake the chicken in the oven for 20-30 minutes (or according to the chart  above) until an instant read thermometer shows 165˚ F.

Step 7

Remove the chicken from the oven and cover with foil. Rest the baked chicken breasts for 10 minutes.

Step 8

Serve immediately or cool to room temperature, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 36 hours.