Alice’s Baked Chicken Breast is a delicious and straightforward dish known for its simplicity and flavor. While there may not be a specific historical origin associated with this particular recipe, baked chicken has been a popular cooking method for chicken for many years. Here’s a breakdown of its components, preparation steps, and cooking time:
Components:
- Chicken breasts: The primary ingredient is boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
- Seasonings: You’ll need various seasonings like salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and any other preferred herbs or spices.
- Olive oil or butter: To help the chicken stay moist and add flavor.
- Optional toppings: You can add ingredients like grated cheese, breadcrumbs, or herbs for extra flavor and texture.
Steps to Prepare Alice’s Baked Chicken Breast:
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Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps the seasonings adhere better.
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Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix your chosen seasonings. You can keep it simple with just salt and pepper or add a combination of herbs and spices. Rub this seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of each chicken breast.
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Grease the Baking Dish: Use a baking dish large enough to fit the chicken breasts without crowding them. Grease the dish with a bit of olive oil or butter to prevent sticking.
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Arrange the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the greased baking dish.
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Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts.
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Optional Toppings: If you’d like to add cheese or breadcrumbs for a crispy topping, sprinkle them over the chicken during the last 5-10 minutes of baking. This allows them to melt or crisp up.
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Rest and Serve: Remove the baked chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the chicken moist.
Total Time Needed:
The total time needed to prepare Alice’s Baked Chicken Breast is approximately 35-40 minutes, including preparation and baking time. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts, so always use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach the correct internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Enjoy your homemade baked chicken breast with your favorite sides for a delightful meal!
Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Alice’s Baked Chicken Breast (per serving, assuming a standard portion):
Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: Approximately 220-250 kcal (varies depending on serving size and additional toppings)
- Protein: About 25-30 grams
- Fat: Around 8-10 grams
- Carbohydrates: Minimal, usually less than 1 gram
- Fiber: Minimal
- Sugar: Minimal, typically less than 1 gram
- Sodium: Varies based on the amount of added salt and seasonings
Health Information:
- High in Protein: Baked chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle health and overall body function.
- Low in Carbohydrates: It’s low in carbs, making it suitable for low-carb or keto diets.
- Low in Calories: It’s a relatively low-calorie option, making it a good choice for those watching their calorie intake.
- Low in Saturated Fat: Skinless chicken breast is naturally low in saturated fat, making it heart-healthy.
- Nutrient-Rich: Chicken breast provides essential nutrients like B vitamins (especially B3 and B6), selenium, and phosphorus.
- Versatile: You can customize the seasonings to control sodium levels and adapt the recipe to your dietary preferences.
Keep in mind that the specific nutrition facts can vary based on factors like portion size, the use of additional ingredients (e.g., cheese or breadcrumbs), and the method of preparation. If you have specific dietary restrictions or health goals, it’s a good idea to adjust the recipe accordingly or consult with a nutritionist for personalized advice.
