How Long to Bake Chicken Breast at 400
How Long to Bake Chicken Breast at 400 – Chicken breast is a popular and versatile ingredient that can be cooked in a variety of ways. Baking chicken breast is one of the easiest and healthiest ways to prepare it. It’s also a great way to meal prep for the week. One of the most common questions people have when baking chicken breast is how long to cook it for.
How Long to Bake Chicken Breast at 400
In this article, we’ll answer that question and provide some tips for making perfectly cooked chicken breast every time.
How Thick is Your Chicken Breast?
The first thing you need to consider when baking chicken breast is how thick it is. The thickness of your chicken breast will affect how long you need to bake it for. To get an accurate reading of the thickness, use a meat thermometer or a ruler. Ideally, your chicken breast should be around 1 inch thick. If it’s thicker than that, you’ll need to adjust the cooking time.
Preheat Your Oven
Before you start baking your chicken breast, preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This will ensure that your chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly. It’s also important to let your oven preheat for at least 10 minutes before putting your chicken in.
Season Your Chicken Breast
Seasoning your chicken breast is a great way to add flavor to your dish. You can use a variety of herbs and spices, such as garlic, rosemary, thyme, or paprika. You can also marinate your chicken breast overnight to infuse it with even more flavor. Just be sure to pat your chicken dry before baking it.
How Long to Bake Chicken Breast at 400?
The general rule of thumb for baking chicken breast at 400 degrees is to cook it for 20-25 minutes. However, this will depend on the thickness of your chicken breast. If your chicken breast is thinner than 1 inch, you may only need to bake it for 15-20 minutes. If it’s thicker than 1 inch, you’ll need to bake it for 25-30 minutes. To ensure that your chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Tips for Perfectly Baked Chicken Breast
- Let your chicken breast come to room temperature before baking it.
- Use a baking dish that’s the right size for your chicken breast.
- Don’t overcrowd your baking dish. Leave some space between each chicken breast.
- Brush your chicken breast with olive oil or melted butter to keep it moist.
- Let your chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it.
Conclusion
Baking chicken breast at 400 degrees is an easy and healthy way to prepare this versatile ingredient. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of your chicken breast, but the general rule of thumb is 20-25 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that your chicken is fully cooked. Don’t forget to season your chicken and let it rest before slicing it. With these tips, you’ll be able to make perfectly baked chicken breast every time. How Long to Bake Chicken Breast at 400