First, preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). This high temperature ensures that the chicken cooks evenly while providing a nice, crispy exterior. Your kitchen will soon fill with the mouthwatering aroma of roasting chicken!
Next, take the chicken breasts and place them in a bowl. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken, coating each piece generously. The oil not only adds flavor but also helps keep the chicken moist during baking.
Now it’s time to season! Sprinkle the garlic salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning over the chicken. Don't be shy—make sure each piece is well-coated. This seasoning blend will infuse the chicken with a delicious taste that enhances its natural flavor.
Once seasoned, transfer the chicken breasts to a greased sheet pan. If you’d like, you can line it with foil for easy cleanup. Spacing the chicken out properly allows it to roast evenly, giving you that perfect texture.
Now, slide the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 16 to 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the juices run clear, and the thickest part of the chicken reaches at least 165°F (74°C) on a meat thermometer. This step is crucial for ensuring your chicken is fully cooked.
If you crave a little extra crispiness, you can broil the chicken for an additional 2 to 3 minutes at the end of the baking time. This will give the chicken a beautiful golden finish that’s hard to resist!
Once out of the oven, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring it remains tender and juicy when you slice or cube it. Trust me, the wait is worth it!
After resting, slice the chicken or cube it as desired. Serve it hot, and enjoy the fruits of your labor!