This simple yet delicious recipe for baked chicken breasts requires only three ingredients, making it perfect for a quick and easy meal. With minimal preparation and a short cooking time, you can have a healthy and flavorful dish ready in no time.
All the ingredients in this recipe are commonly found in most households. However, if you don't have olive oil on hand, you can easily find it in the cooking oils section of your local supermarket. Make sure to choose a good quality olive oil for the best flavor.
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Ingredients For Three Ingredient Baked Chicken Breasts Recipe
Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the main protein in this dish. They are lean and cook quickly.
Olive oil: This oil adds moisture and a rich flavor to the chicken. It also helps to keep the chicken from drying out during baking.
Salt: A basic seasoning that enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and the olive oil.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
To ensure your chicken breasts remain juicy and flavorful, consider marinating them in the olive oil and salt mixture for at least 30 minutes before baking. This allows the seasoning to penetrate deeper into the meat, enhancing the overall taste. Additionally, using a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) can help avoid overcooking.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
chicken breasts - Substitute with turkey breasts: Turkey breasts have a similar texture and can be cooked in the same manner as chicken breasts.
chicken breasts - Substitute with tofu: Tofu is a great plant-based alternative that can absorb flavors well and provide a similar protein content.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, making it a good alternative for baking.
olive oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can add a slight sweetness and works well in baking due to its stable fat content.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can provide a salty flavor along with additional umami notes.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a direct substitute and may offer a slightly different mineral profile for added flavor complexity.
Alternative Recipes Similar to This One
How to Store or Freeze This Dish
Allow the chicken breasts to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the chicken soggy.
For short-term storage, place the baked chicken breasts in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This keeps the chicken fresh and ready for quick meals.
To freeze, wrap each chicken breast individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This prevents freezer burn and makes it easy to thaw only what you need.
Place the wrapped chicken breasts in a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness. The chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months.
When ready to use, thaw the chicken breasts in the refrigerator overnight. This ensures even thawing and maintains the texture of the meat.
For a quick thaw, place the wrapped chicken breasts in a bowl of cold water. Change the water every 30 minutes until thawed. This method is faster but requires more attention.
Reheat the chicken breasts in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This helps retain moisture and flavor.
Alternatively, reheat in the microwave on medium power, covered with a microwave-safe lid or plate. Heat in 1-minute intervals, turning the chicken breasts to ensure even heating.
For added flavor, brush the chicken breasts with a bit of olive oil or your favorite sauce before reheating. This can enhance the taste and keep the meat juicy.
Pair the reheated chicken breasts with fresh vegetables, a side of rice, or a crisp salad for a complete meal. This makes for a quick and nutritious dinner option.
How to Reheat Leftovers
Oven Method:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the leftover chicken breasts in a baking dish.
- Add a splash of chicken broth or water to the dish to keep the chicken moist.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
- Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through.
Stovetop Method:
- Slice the chicken breasts into thinner pieces for even reheating.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil.
- Place the chicken slices in the skillet.
- Cover the skillet with a lid to trap the heat and moisture.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the chicken is warmed through.
Microwave Method:
- Place the leftover chicken breasts on a microwave-safe plate.
- Add a damp paper towel over the chicken to retain moisture.
- Microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes.
- Check the chicken and continue to microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
Sous Vide Method:
- Preheat your sous vide machine to 140°F (60°C).
- Place the chicken breasts in a vacuum-sealed bag or a resealable plastic bag using the water displacement method.
- Submerge the bag in the water bath.
- Heat for about 45 minutes to ensure the chicken is evenly warmed.
Air Fryer Method:
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket.
- Heat for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is hot and slightly crispy.
Essential Tools for This Recipe
Oven: Used to bake the chicken breasts at a consistent temperature of 400°F (200°C).
Baking dish: Holds the chicken breasts while they bake, ensuring even cooking.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure the olive oil and salt accurately.
Basting brush: Helps to evenly drizzle and spread the olive oil over the chicken breasts.
Tongs: Useful for placing the chicken breasts into the baking dish and removing them once cooked.
Meat thermometer: Ensures the chicken is cooked through by checking the internal temperature.
Oven mitts: Protects your hands when placing the baking dish in and out of the hot oven.
Cutting board: Provides a clean surface to prepare the chicken breasts before baking.
Knife: Used to trim any excess fat or unwanted parts from the chicken breasts before cooking.
How to Save Time on This Recipe
Preheat the oven early: Start preheating your oven while you prepare the chicken breasts to save time.
Use a baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup and faster cooking.
Marinate in advance: Marinate the chicken breasts overnight to enhance flavor and reduce prep time.
Check doneness with a thermometer: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through without overbaking.
Batch cook: Cook extra chicken breasts and store them for quick meals throughout the week.
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Three Ingredient Baked Chicken Breasts Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces Chicken Breasts
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- 1 teaspoon Salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish.
- Drizzle olive oil over the chicken breasts and sprinkle with salt.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
Suggested Appetizers and Desserts
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