How long does it take to bake chicken breasts at 425 degrees Fahrenheit?

The cooking time can vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken breasts. Generally, baking chicken breasts at 425 degrees Fahrenheit takes about 20 to 25 minutes. However, using a meat thermometer is important to check for doneness. For fully cooked chicken, the internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius).

Should I cover the chicken breasts while baking?

Covering the chicken breasts while baking at 425 degrees Fahrenheit is unnecessary. Leaving them uncovered allows the heat to circulate evenly, creating a crispy and golden exterior. However, if the chicken is browning too quickly on top, you can loosely cover it with foil to prevent excessive browning.

How do I know if the chicken breasts are cooked through?

The best way to determine if the chicken breasts are cooked through is by using a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken breast without touching the bone. For properly cooked chicken, the internal temperature should read 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius). If you don't have a thermometer, you can cut into the thickest part of the chicken breast and ensure the juices run clear with no pinkness.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for baking at 425 degrees Fahrenheit?

It is generally recommended to thaw the chicken breasts before baking for even and thorough cooking. However, you can increase the cooking time if you need to bake frozen chicken breasts. Thawed chicken breasts may take approximately 50% longer than the recommended cooking time.

Is it better to bake chicken breast at 350 or 425?

Baking chicken breasts at a higher temperature helps promote quicker cooking and can result in a nicely browned and crisp exterior. The higher heat can also help seal in juices and create a slightly more intense flavor.

How to properly slice chicken breasts

To properly slice chicken breasts, let them rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute. Use a sharp knife and cut against the grain to make the meat tender and easier to chew. Aim for uniform slices of even thickness. Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator once cooled for future use.

How Long to Bake Chicken Breast at 425 (Easy Recipe)

Name: Best Oven Baked Chicken Breast Recipe
Prep time: PT-476526H1M45S
Cook time: PT-476526H1M45S
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 boneless, boneless skinless chicken breasts; Kosher Salt and black pepper (to taste); 6 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Ingredients

Scale

4 boneless, boneless skinless chicken breasts
Kosher Salt and black pepper (to taste)
6 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius). Grease a shallow baking dish with butter, or line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and coat it with butter- set aside.
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and red pepper flakes (if using). For marinade variations, see the blog post.
Place chicken in a large bowl and rub the olive oil and spice mixture all over the chicken breasts, coating them evenly. You can also place the chicken breasts in a plastic bag and massage the outside of the bag to coat the chicken. Let marinade for 30 minutes.
Remove chicken from plastic bags and place in a single layer on the prepared baking dish or baking sheet. Bake chicken breasts for 23-30 minutes for large breasts and 17-20 minutes for medium breasts until they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius). You can check the temperature by inserting an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken breast. See notes for more.
Remove the pan from the oven and cover loosely with aluminum foil. Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Slice and serve with any sides you choose or use to make a chicken salad or chicken wrap.

Notes

Chicken Breast Thickness Baking Time at 425°F

- 1/2 inch: 16-18 minutes

- 1 inch: 18-22 minutes

- 1 1/2 inch: 22-26 minutes

- 2 inches: 25-30 minutes

TOP TIPS

Use a meat thermometer: Invest in a reliable meat thermometer to ensure accurate cooking. It will help you determine the exact internal temperature of the chicken breasts and prevent overcooking.

Pound the chicken breasts: If your chicken breasts are uneven in thickness, pound them to an even thickness. This promotes even cooking and prevents some parts from drying out while others remain undercooked.

Use a marinade or dry rub: Adding flavor through marinades or dry rubs can elevate the taste of the chicken breasts. Marinate them for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours) before baking, or apply a dry rub and let them rest for a while to absorb the flavors.

Properly season the chicken: Don’t forget to season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, or any other desired herbs and spices, before baking. Seasoning helps enhance the overall taste and brings out the flavors of the chicken.

Rest the chicken before slicing: After baking, let the chicken breasts rest for a few minutes before slicing or serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in juicier and more tender meat.

Consider using a meat mallet or rolling pin: If you want a quicker cooking time, you can flatten the chicken breasts slightly using a meat mallet or rolling pin. This helps them cook more evenly and reduces the risk of drying out.

Monitor cooking time: Keep a close eye on the chicken breasts while they are baking, especially during the final few minutes. Overcooking can quickly lead to dry chicken, so it’s important to check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Author: Elena
Prep Time: 5 min + marinade time
Cook Time: 20-20 minutes
Category: Savory
Method: Italian
Cuisine: Italian