Tender And Juicy Baked Chicken Breasts

Growing up, chicken breasts were a staple in my house. My mom used to prepare them in so many delicious ways. I remember the aroma that would fill our home as she cooked them. I loved the juicy, tender flavor that the chicken breasts had and I’m so excited to share my favorite recipe with you.

Chicken Breasts Recipe

Ingredients

• 6 (5 ounce) skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 (8 ounce) package sliced fresh mushrooms
• 4 tablespoons butter, divided, or more as needed
• ¾ cup Marsala wine
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 stalks green onions, chopped

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
• In a shallow bowl, mix together the flour, salt and pepper.
• Dredge the chicken breasts in the flour mixture and set aside.
• In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
• Add the mushrooms and cook until lightly browned, about 5 minutes.
• Transfer the mushrooms to a bowl and set aside.
• Add the remaining butter to the skillet and heat until melted.
• Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook until lightly browned, about 5 minutes per side.
• Transfer the chicken to a baking dish.
• Add the Marsala wine and chicken broth to the skillet and bring to a boil.
• Add the mushrooms to the skillet and stir to combine.
• Pour the mushroom mixture over the chicken breasts.
• Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top of the chicken.
• Bake in the preheated oven until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted, about 45 minutes.
• Sprinkle the chopped green onions over the top and serve.

Nutrition Facts

• Serving size: 1 chicken breast
• Calories: 283
• Fat: 11.3g
• Carbohydrates: 8.7g
• Protein: 32.7g
• Sodium: 504mg
• Cholesterol: 94mg

Different ways to flavor chicken breasts

Chicken breasts are a popular and versatile choice of meat, and there are many different ways to flavor them. Here are the five best ways to add flavor to chicken breasts.

• Marinades and Sauces – Marinating chicken breasts in a flavorful sauce for several hours or overnight is an easy way to impart a robust flavor. Popular marinades and sauces include buttermilk, teriyaki, pesto, vinaigrette, salsa, and bbq.
• Herbs and Spices – Sprinkle a variety of herbs and spices over the chicken breasts for a tasty result. Some great options include garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, parsley, chili powder, paprika, and thyme.
• Rubs – Rubs are combinations of herbs and spices that can be massaged onto the chicken breasts to add flavor. Popular rubs include smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cumin.
• Stuffing – For an extra special dish, try stuffing the chicken breasts with your favorite ingredients. Popular stuffing ingredients include cheese, mushrooms, spinach, and nuts.
• Glazes – Glazes can be brushed onto the chicken breasts before and during cooking to add flavor. Popular glazes include honey, balsamic, soy sauce, and BBQ sauce.

By using a combination of marinades, herbs and spices, rubs, stuffing, and glazes, you can create delicious and flavorful chicken breasts. With a little creativity, you can make your own unique recipes that will wow your friends and family.

Health benefits of chicken breasts

Chicken breasts are a nutritious and versatile cut of meat that can be easily cooked and added to a variety of dishes. They are a good source of lean protein, and they offer a variety of health benefits.

Health Benefits of Chicken Breasts:

• Rich in lean protein: Chicken breasts are an excellent source of lean protein, which is important for maintaining healthy muscles, bones, and skin.
• Low in fat and calories: Chicken breasts are low in fat and calories, making them a healthy option for weight loss or weight maintenance.
• Rich in essential vitamins and minerals: Chicken breasts are a good source of essential vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins, iron, and zinc.
• High in selenium: Chicken breasts are high in selenium, an essential mineral with antioxidant properties that supports immune health.
• Good source of choline: Chicken breasts are a good source of choline, an important nutrient for brain health. Choline plays a role in memory, concentration, and other cognitive functions.
• May reduce inflammation: Chicken breasts contain anti-inflammatory compounds, which may help reduce chronic inflammation.
• May reduce the risk of heart disease: Eating chicken breasts may help reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering cholesterol levels and improving blood pressure.

How to prepare perfectly cooked chicken breasts

Cooking the perfect chicken breast can be tricky as it is easy to end up with dry, tough, and flavorless chicken. However, with the right preparation and cooking techniques, you can be sure to get juicy, tender, and flavorful chicken every time. Follow these steps to prepare and cook the perfect chicken breasts:

• Pre-heat the oven to 375°F.
• Place the chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish, and season with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings.
• Bake for 25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

By following these steps, you will get perfectly cooked chicken breasts every time.

Tips for buying the best quality chicken breasts

Buying the best quality chicken breasts doesn’t have to be a chore – here are a few simple tips to help you find the perfect cut for your needs:

• Look for breasts with a nice white color and no discoloration. If there is any discoloration, it is likely that the chicken is not of the highest quality.
• Make sure the chicken breasts are firm to the touch and do not have any bruises or marks.
• Check the packaging to make sure that the chicken has been kept at a consistent temperature and has not been exposed to any bacteria or contaminants.
• Look for chicken breasts that are plump and full. This means that the chicken has been fed a healthy diet, which will result in a better flavor and texture.
• If you can, buy organic chicken breasts. This will ensure that the chicken has been raised in a controlled environment and is free of hormones and antibiotics.
• Ask the butcher or store clerk for advice on the best cuts of chicken breasts. They will be able to guide you to the best cuts for your needs.
• When it comes to buying frozen chicken breasts, look for ones that have been individually wrapped and are free from ice crystals. This indicates that the chicken has been flash-frozen and has not been exposed to any bacteria or contaminants.

Reasons to incorporate chicken breasts into your diet

Incorporating chicken breasts into your diet can be a great way to stay healthy and maintain a balanced nutrition plan. Chicken breasts are an excellent source of lean protein, providing a great source of energy, as well as essential vitamins and minerals. Additionally, chicken breasts are low in fat and cholesterol, making them a healthier alternative to red meats. Here are some of the top reasons to include chicken breasts in your diet.

• High Protein Content: Chicken breasts are high in lean protein, providing up to 30 grams of protein in a 3.5-ounce serving. Protein is essential for building and repairing muscle, as well as for providing energy throughout the day.
• Low in Fat and Cholesterol: Chicken breasts are low in fat and cholesterol, making them a healthier alternative to red meats. Eating chicken breasts regularly can help reduce your risk of developing heart disease or stroke.
• Essential Vitamins and Minerals: In addition to being a great source of lean protein, chicken breasts contain essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B6, niacin, and phosphorus. These vitamins and minerals are essential for keeping your body healthy and functioning properly.
• Versatile and Easy to Prepare: Chicken breasts are incredibly versatile and can be cooked in a variety of ways. Additionally, chicken breasts are quick and easy to prepare, making them a great option for busy weeknights.

Incorporating chicken breasts into your diet can be a great way to stay healthy and maintain a balanced nutrition plan. With their high protein content, low fat and cholesterol content, and essential vitamins and minerals, chicken breasts are a great option for those looking to improve their health and nutrition.