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## **How to Make Ultra-Juicy Baked Chicken**
### **Step 1: Preheat the Oven**
1. Preheat your oven to **375°F (190°C)**. This temperature ensures that the chicken cooks through without drying out, keeping it juicy on the inside.
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### **Step 2: Season the Chicken**
2. Pat your **chicken breasts** dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick and prevents the chicken from steaming while baking.
3. Drizzle **2 tablespoons of olive oil** over the chicken and rub it in evenly.
4. Sprinkle the **garlic powder**, **onion powder**, **paprika**, **dried thyme**, **salt**, and **pepper** all over the chicken breasts, making sure they are coated on all sides.
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### **Step 3: Sear the Chicken (Optional but Recommended)**
5. Heat **1 tablespoon of butter** in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and slightly foamy, add the chicken breasts to the pan.
6. Sear the chicken for **2-3 minutes** per side, until it gets a golden brown crust. This helps seal in the juices and gives the chicken an extra layer of flavor.
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### **Step 4: Bake the Chicken**
7. After searing, pour **1/2 cup of chicken broth** (or water) into the skillet to help keep the chicken moist during baking. The broth adds flavor and creates a light steam effect inside the pan.
8. Squeeze the **juice of 1 lemon** over the chicken to add a touch of acidity that enhances the flavors.
9. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about **20-25 minutes**, or until the internal temperature reaches **165°F (74°C)** when checked with a meat thermometer.
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### **Step 5: Rest and Serve**
10. Once the chicken is cooked through, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for **5 minutes**. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken tender and juicy.
11. Garnish with fresh herbs like **rosemary** or **parsley** for a pop of color and added flavor.
12. Slice, serve, and enjoy!
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## **Serving Ideas for Ultra-Juicy Baked Chicken**
– **With Vegetables** – Pair this juicy chicken with roasted vegetables like **sweet potatoes**, **brussels sprouts**, or **carrots** for a healthy, well-rounded meal.
– **Over Rice** – Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy rice or **quinoa** for a filling and nutritious meal.
– **In Salads or Wraps** – Slice the chicken thinly and add it to a fresh salad or wrap for a lighter option.
– **With Potatoes** – Whether mashed, roasted, or baked, potatoes make a perfect pairing with this juicy chicken.
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## **Why This Recipe is So Juicy**
The **key to juiciness** lies in the cooking method. By searing the chicken first, you lock in the flavors and moisture, which prevents the meat from drying out. The **chicken broth** or water added to the pan creates steam, keeping the chicken tender as it bakes. Lastly, letting the chicken **rest** before slicing ensures it stays juicy and flavorful.
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## **Conclusion**
This **Ultra-Juicy Baked Chicken** is a true kitchen staple, perfect for anyone who wants a delicious, easy, and reliable meal. The combination of simple ingredients, a quick sear, and a gentle bake ensures you’ll never have to worry about dry chicken again. With its tender, flavorful results, you’ll find yourself making this dish **three times a week**, just like I do. Enjoy this juicy, succulent chicken and get ready for a family favorite! 🍗
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