In a baking dish lay out the uncooked chicken
INGREDIENTS:
Chicken pieces breasts
Salt and pepper (to taste)
Olive oil or melted butter (for brushing)
INSTRUCTIONS:
Spray nonstick cooking spray onto a baking sheet and set oven temperature to 350ºF.
Place the chicken breasts in the oven. The chicken breasts should not touch, so be sure to stretch them widely.
Add salt and pepper to the chicken breasts before coating them with olive oil.
After 25–35 minutes of baking, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165ºF, transfer it to the oven.
After taking the chicken out of the oven, let it aside to cool for a few minutes.
You may use a hand blender or two forks to shred the chicken.
TIPS
Do not use enormous 1 pound chicken breasts; this recipe calls for 4 to 6 medium-sized breasts. The chicken breasts’ size is a major factor in determining the cooking time. Cooking time is directly proportional to breast size.
Notes:
Ensure that the chicken pieces are thawed completely if using frozen chicken to ensure even cooking.
You can customize the seasoning of the chicken with your favorite herbs and spices, such as garlic powder, paprika, or Italian seasoning.
For extra flavor, you can add sliced onions, garlic cloves, or lemon wedges to the baking dish before placing the chicken on top.
Always use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken is cooked through, as undercooked chicken can pose health risks.
Leftover baked chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days and used in salads, sandwiches, or other dishes.
Health Benefits:
Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. It also contains important nutrients like vitamins B6 and B12, niacin, and selenium, which support metabolism, immune function, and overall health. When baked rather than fried, chicken retains more of its nutritional value while minimizing added fats.