Baking chicken breast at 350°F is one of the easiest, most foolproof ways to cook this healthy, versatile protein. When done right, oven-baked chicken breast comes out tender and juicy every time. However, nailing the timing can sometimes be tricky. Undercook it and you risk food poisoning, overdo it and you end up with dry, stringy meat.
So exactly how long does it take to bake boneless, skinless chicken breast at 350°F to achieve perfection? Read on for a detailed guide with timings tips and tricks to help you master this simple cooking technique.
Factors That Affect Chicken Breast Baking Time
Several key factors impact the baking time needed for boneless chicken breasts at 350°F, including:
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Thickness – The thicker the breast, the longer the bake time. Breasts around 1 inch thick take 20-25 minutes. Thinner ones may be done in 15-20 minutes.
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Oven variations – All ovens bake a bit differently, Get an oven thermometer to check your actual temperature,
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Initial temperature – Room temperature chicken cooks faster than refrigerated. Let sit 20-30 minutes before baking.
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Marinades and coatings – Brines, rubs and breadcrumbs can affect cook time. Watch closely.
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Quantity – More chicken breasts require more time to cook through. Don’t overcrowd the pan.
Because so many variables are at play, rely on a meat thermometer rather than time alone to gauge doneness.
Step-By-Step Method for Baked Chicken Breast
Follow these simple steps for foolproof oven-baked chicken breast:
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Preheat oven to 350°F. Use an oven thermometer to confirm temperature if possible.
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Prepare chicken. Rinse, pat dry and trim any excess fat. Pound to even thickness if needed.
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Season. Rub chicken all over with oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper and desired herbs or spices.
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Arrange in baking dish. Place chicken in a single layer with space between breasts.
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Bake 20-25 minutes. Check at 20 minutes. Bake up to 30 minutes max for very thick breasts.
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Test doneness. Chicken is done at an internal temperature of 165°F.
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Rest 5-10 minutes. Tent with foil before slicing for juicy results.
Helpful Tips and Variations
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Brine chicken in saltwater for added moisture and flavor.
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Coat with breadcrumbs, Parmesan or spices for crunchy baked chicken.
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Bake with sliced lemons, herbs or compound butter under the skin or on top.
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Roast with potatoes, carrots and other veggies for an easy one-pan meal.
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Bake frozen chicken covered at 375°F approximately 50% longer.
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Use marinades, rubs and sauces like barbecue, teriyaki or Italian dressing.
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Bake in muffin tins or ramekins for individual portions.
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Layer baked chicken in sandwiches, wraps, salads, pastas and more.
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Store baked chicken breast refrigerated up to 4 days or frozen up to 4 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I prevent dry chicken breast when baking?
- Don’t overcook. Use a meat thermometer and stop at 165°F.
- Brine chicken in saltwater before baking.
- Coat with oil and seasonings. Baste with butter or pan juices while baking.
What is the minimum safe internal temperature for cooked chicken?
165°F is the safe minimum internal temperature for chicken to kill potentially harmful bacteria.
Should I bake bone-in or boneless chicken breasts?
Boneless breasts cook more quickly and evenly. Bone-in may have more flavor. Cut slits to prevent curling.
Can I bake frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, but thaw first for food safety and best results. If using frozen, bake covered at 375°F approximately 50% longer.
What if my chicken breasts are thick?
Pound to an even thickness so they cook evenly. Or bake longer, testing frequently with a meat thermometer for doneness.
How long does baked chicken last in the fridge?
Cooked chicken breast stored properly in an airtight container will last 3 to 4 days refrigerated. Freeze up to 4 months for longer storage.
The Takeaway
Perfectly baked chicken breast requires paying attention to thickness, cook time, temperature and resting. For boneless, skinless breasts 1 inch thick, bake at 350°F for approximately 20-25 minutes until cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F. Rely on a meat thermometer for accuracy. Rest before slicing for juicy, tender oven-baked chicken every time.
Tips For Making Juicy and Tender Oven Baked Chicken
While baking times and temperatures are important, there are a few other tips for juicy baked chicken:
- Brine the chicken before baking to keep it moist.
- Cover the chicken with foil for the first half of the baking time to prevent it from drying out (or burning when using high temperatures).
- Baste the chicken with melted butter and a high smoke-point oil to add moisture.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 to 10 minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute for more tender chicken.
- Avoid cutting into chicken to check doneness, as valuable juices will escape causing the meat to dry out. Use a thermometer instead.
How Long to Bake Chicken
Cooking times and temperatures will depend on the cut, weight, and recipe. The safe internal temperature for poultry is 165°F (74°C) and you should always check it using an instant-read thermometer. Also, you need to rest your chicken after baking to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat and keep it extra moist.