Roasting chicken breast is a straightforward and delicious way to prepare this lean meat. Here's a basic recipe for roasted chicken breast:

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet, depending on your preference)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or any preferred herbs)
• Optional: lemon slices or fresh herbs for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Begin by preparing the chicken breasts. Make sure they are trimmed of excess fat and pat them dry with paper towels. This will help the skinless breasts to brown nicely.
3. Place the chicken breasts on a clean cutting board. You can optionally tenderize the chicken breasts by gently pounding them with a meat mallet. This helps them cook evenly.
4. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and dried thyme. This mixture will be your seasoning.
5. Rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken breasts, making sure to coat them evenly. You can also gently lift the skin and rub some of the seasoning under it if you prefer more flavor.
6. If you have time, let the chicken breasts marinate in the seasoning mixture for 15-30 minutes for extra flavor. If you're in a hurry, you can roast them right away.
7. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easier cleanup.
8. Roast the chicken breasts in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the size of your chicken breasts and your oven, so use a meat thermometer to ensure they are done. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
9. Once the chicken breasts are cooked through, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the meat moist and tender.
10. Serve your roasted chicken breasts with your favorite sides. You can garnish with lemon slices or fresh herbs for added flavor and presentation.

Remember that cooking times can vary, so always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is cooked to the right temperature. Enjoy your perfectly roasted chicken breasts!

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