How Long Should You Cook Boneless Chicken Breast at 375 Degrees for Perfectly Juicy Results?

Cooking boneless chicken breast can feel a bit intimidating. It’s easy to end up with dry, stringy meat if you don’t get the timing just right. But have no fear! When cooked properly, boneless chicken breast can be super juicy, flavorful and delicious. The trick is to understand how to bring out the best in this healthy, versatile ingredient.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know to cook boneless chicken breast to perfection at 375 degrees Fahrenheit. You’ll learn ideal cook times, the best prep methods, how to tell when it’s done, and tips for keeping it tender and moist. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be enjoying juicy, restaurant-quality chicken breast in no time!

Quick Guide for Cooking Boneless Chicken Breast at 375°F

• Prep chicken by trimming excess fat and pounding to an even thickness
• Season well with salt, pepper and spices or marinade
• Cook for 18-22 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 165°F
• Allow to rest 5-10 minutes before serving to lock in juices
• Bake uncovered for crispy skin or cover to keep moist

Selecting and Preparing the Chicken

The first step to juicy boneless chicken breast is choosing high-quality meat. Opt for chicken that is pinkish in color without any blemishes. Rinse and pat dry then trim off any excess fat or sinew. Pound the chicken to an even 1⁄2 to 3⁄4 inch thickness so it cooks evenly.

Season the chicken well on both sides with salt, pepper and any other spices you desire. Herbs like rosemary, thyme and oregano are tasty additions You can also marinate for added flavor and moisture – try a Greek yogurt marinade. Letting the chicken sit with seasoning for 10-20 minutes draws out the flavors.

Make sure the chicken is at room temperature before cooking for optimal results. Cold chicken from the fridge takes longer to cook, drying it out.

Cook Times and Internal Temperature

When cooking boneless chicken breast at 375°F, the ideal internal temperature to reach is 165°F. This ensures any harmful bacteria is killed while keeping the meat tender and juicy.

• 1 pound of chicken breast needs 18-22 minutes
• 1.5-2 pounds needs 22-25 minutes
• 2.5-3 pounds needs 25-28 minutes

The cook time can vary slightly based on the thickness of the chicken breasts. Use a meat thermometer to test for doneness by inserting it into the thickest part without touching bone.

Keeping it Juicy

There are a few tricks you can use to keep boneless chicken breast extra moist when cooking it in the oven at 375 degrees:

• Bake it covered with foil at first, then uncover for the last 5-10 minutes. This traps in steam to prevent drying out.

• Brine the chicken in a saltwater solution before cooking. This helps it retain moisture.

• Coat with olive oil or melted butter before cooking. The fat bastes the chicken as it cooks.

• Avoid overcooking! Use a meat thermometer and remove from oven at 165°F.

• Allow to rest at least 5 minutes before slicing into it so juices can redistribute.

Extra Crispy Skin

For boneless chicken breast with crispy, golden skin, bake it uncovered in the oven at 375°F. The high heat will help the skin get browned and crispy. Rub a bit of oil over the skin before cooking to boost browning.

Cook until the internal temperature is 165°F and the skin has browned to your liking. Smaller chicken breasts will need 18-22 minutes, while larger ones may need up to 30 minutes uncovered.

Cooking Multiple Chicken Breasts

If you’re cooking more than 2-3 boneless chicken breasts, it’s best to use a rimmed baking sheet instead of a baking dish. This allows for better air circulation to crisp the skin.

Arrange the chicken in a single layer without overcrowding. Follow the same cook times based on poundage, checking the largest breast for doneness. The thinner breasts may cook faster, so remove them first if needed.

Rotate the pan halfway during baking for even cooking. Tent with foil if chicken is browning too quickly before the interior is cooked through.

Grilling Boneless Chicken Breast

Grilling is another excellent cooking method that yields juicy results. Prepare as directed above. Grill over direct medium heat 5-7 minutes per side with the lid closed.

Aim for an internal temp of 165°F, allowing rest time after. Brush with oil or marinade glaze during grilling for added moisture and caramelization.

Troubleshooting Dry Chicken

If your boneless chicken breast still turns out a bit dry, don’t fret! You can salvage it by slicing thinly and serving with flavorful sauces. Stir fry leftovers with vegetables and sauce for a quick meal. Shred and mix it with barbecue sauce, salsa or gravy. The additional moisture from sauces will make up for the dryness.

Let’s Get Cooking!

Now you have all the tools you need to cook juicy, flavorful boneless chicken breast at 375 degrees Fahrenheit. With the right prep, seasonings, cook times and temperature, you’ll be enjoying tender, succulent chicken breast in no time. Experiment with different herb rubs, marinades and sauces to find your favorite flavors. Impress your family with your culinary skills. Happy cooking!