How Long Do You Bake Chicken Breast for at 350?
When it comes to cooking chicken breast, one of the most common questions that arise is how long to bake it in the oven. The answer is not a straightforward one, as it depends on several factors, including the size of the chicken breast, the temperature of the oven, and the level of doneness desired. In this article, we will explore the different factors that affect the baking time of chicken breast and provide you with a comprehensive guide on how long to bake chicken breast for at 350°F (175°C).
Factors that Affect Baking Time
Before we dive into the specific baking times, it’s essential to understand the factors that affect the baking time of chicken breast. These include:
- Size of the chicken breast: The size of the chicken breast is the most significant factor that affects the baking time. Larger chicken breasts take longer to cook than smaller ones.
- Temperature of the oven: The temperature of the oven also plays a crucial role in determining the baking time. A higher temperature will cook the chicken breast faster, while a lower temperature will take longer.
- Level of doneness desired: The level of doneness desired also affects the baking time. If you prefer your chicken breast to be well-done, you will need to bake it for a longer time than if you prefer it to be medium-rare.
General Baking Times for Chicken Breast at 350°F (175°C)
Now that we have covered the factors that affect the baking time, let’s look at the general baking times for chicken breast at 350°F (175°C). Here are some guidelines to follow:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breast: For boneless, skinless chicken breast, you can bake it for:
- 12-15 minutes for a 6-ounce (170g) breast
- 15-18 minutes for an 8-ounce (225g) breast
- 18-20 minutes for a 10-ounce (280g) breast
- Bone-in, skin-on chicken breast: For bone-in, skin-on chicken breast, you can bake it for:
- 18-22 minutes for a 6-ounce (170g) breast
- 22-25 minutes for an 8-ounce (225g) breast
- 25-28 minutes for a 10-ounce (280g) breast
Additional Tips and Considerations
Here are some additional tips and considerations to keep in mind when baking chicken breast at 350°F (175°C):
- Make sure the chicken breast is at room temperature: It’s essential to take the chicken breast out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before baking. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and prevents it from cooking too quickly on the outside.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: Make sure to leave enough space between each chicken breast on the baking sheet to allow for even cooking. Overcrowding the baking sheet can lead to uneven cooking and a risk of undercooked or overcooked chicken.
- Use a meat thermometer: To ensure that the chicken breast is cooked to a safe internal temperature, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The recommended internal temperature for cooked chicken breast is 165°F (74°C).
- Let it rest: After baking the chicken breast, let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing or serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken breast more tender and juicy.
Table: Baking Times for Chicken Breast at 350°F (175°C)
Here is a table summarizing the baking times for chicken breast at 350°F (175°C):
Size of Chicken Breast | Boneless, Skinless | Bone-in, Skin-on |
---|---|---|
6-ounce (170g) | 12-15 minutes | 18-22 minutes |
8-ounce (225g) | 15-18 minutes | 22-25 minutes |
10-ounce (280g) | 18-20 minutes | 25-28 minutes |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the baking time for chicken breast at 350°F (175°C) depends on the size of the chicken breast, the temperature of the oven, and the level of doneness desired. By following the general guidelines provided in this article, you can achieve perfectly cooked chicken breast that is juicy and tender. Remember to always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken breast reaches a safe internal temperature, and let it rest before serving. With these tips and considerations, you’ll be on your way to becoming a chicken breast baking expert!