Step by step

Method

4 steps

1. 1

   Heat the oven to 400°F and lightly oil a baking dish. Pat 4 chicken breasts dry; if the thick ends are much taller than the thin ends, pound them gently so they cook at the same pace.

2. 2

   Rub the chicken with 2 tablespoons olive oil, then season both sides with 1 teaspoon each garlic powder and onion powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper.

3. 3

   Set the breasts in the dish and bake for 18–20 minutes. Start checking early if they are small; the center should be nearly cooked and at least 155°F before the sauce goes on.

4. 4

   Brush 1 cup barbecue sauce over the tops and bake 5–8 minutes more, until the sauce looks sticky and the chicken reaches 165°F. Rest for 5 minutes so the juices settle.