Are you tired of bland, dry meat that leaves you disappointed at the dinner table? Get ready to unlock the secret to perfectly juicy, flavor-packed chicken breasts or pork chops that will have your family begging for seconds! This foolproof recipe is so simple, even kitchen novices can become culinary heroes in just 35 minutes. Whether you're a busy parent, a cooking beginner, or just looking for a quick and delicious meal, this recipe is about to become your new go-to dinner solution.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts or pork chops
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a large baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Pat the chicken breasts or pork chops completely dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a better sear and prevents steaming.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to create a marinade. Ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed.
- Brush both sides of each chicken breast or pork chop generously with the seasoned olive oil mixture, coating them thoroughly.
- Arrange the meat on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching each other. This allows for even heat circulation and proper browning.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, depending on the thickness of the meat.
- Check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach 165°F (74°C), and pork chops should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Remove from the oven and let the meat rest for 5-7 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender result.
- Slice and serve hot with your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables, rice, or salad.
Tips
- Pat the meat dry: This crucial step ensures a beautiful golden-brown exterior and prevents steaming. Use paper towels to remove excess moisture completely.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet: Leave space between each piece of meat to allow proper heat circulation and even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the most reliable way to ensure your chicken or pork is cooked perfectly without drying out.
- Let the meat rest: Those extra 5-7 minutes after cooking are critical for redistributing juices, making your meat incredibly tender and juicy.
- Customize your seasoning: While Italian seasoning works great, feel free to experiment with different herb blends or spice mixes to keep things interesting.
- Prep ahead: You can marinate the meat for a few hours in the refrigerator for even more flavor if you have time.Pro tip: For an extra crispy exterior, you can finish the meat under the broiler for 1-2 minutes after cooking, but watch carefully to prevent burning!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
