How to Roast Chicken Breasts in Convection

If you are looking for a foolproof method for roasting chicken breasts, look no further; convection is the key to juicy, flavorful meat. Convection circulates heated air around the oven, cooking food from the edge to the center, and this heated convection oven for roasting air helps preserve the natural moisture in food.  

For best results, cook chicken breasts in either the convection or convection bake mode, as the more intense heat generated in the Convection Roast mode can dry the meat.

Cooking chicken breasts on the bone helps preserve moisture and adds flavor to the chicken. Of course, you can use the bones to make a quick stock. To ensure even cooking, use a mallet to flatten out the thicker part of the breast. Of course, there are times when boneless skinless breasts are more convenient, but be sure to oversee the timing and temperature to avoid overcooking the meat.

A dry rub with kosher salt and your preferred seasoning is an excellent way to bring out flavor when roasting chicken at moderate temperatures. Wet marinades are ideal when cooking chicken at high temperatures, such as on an outdoor grill, to prevent the meat from drying out too much.

PREPARATION

Heat the oven to 350F in the convection or convection bake mode. For boneless skinless chicken, use 325F.

Before seasoning the chicken, flatten it slightly at the thicker end with a meat mallet for even cooking.

Season the chicken with kosher salt and your seasoning of choice, and rub a little olive oil into the meat. Alternatively, add a spritz of spray oil to the chicken. Spice rub mixes containing paprika add flavor and color to chicken breasts.

Place the chicken on a shallow-rimmed baking sheet and bake for 25 to 30 minutes for bone-in chicken and 20 - 25 for boneless. The precise cooking time will depend on how cold the chicken is and how thick the portions are. It's always better to check the chicken to determine if it is cooked through earlier to avoid overcooking the meat.

INGREDIENTS

2 bone-in chicken breasts

1 tsp kosher salt

1 tsp preferred seasoning

2 tsp olive oil