For standard boneless, skinless chicken breasts, a good rule of thumb is 18–30 minutes in a moderately hot oven, depending on thickness, always cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.

Quick Scoop: Time & Temp

Here are reliable, home‑cook‑friendly ranges for how long and what temp to bake chicken breast.

Most common options

  • 350°F (175°C):
    • 4–6 oz thinner breasts: about 22–30 minutes.
* Good if you’re worried about drying them out; gentler heat.
  • 375°F (190°C):
    • Average breast: usually 25–30 minutes.
* Very popular for sheet‑pan dinners with veggies and potatoes.
  • 400°F (205°C):
    • Medium breasts: around 20 minutes.
* Nice balance of speed and browning.
  • 425°F (220°C):
    • Medium breasts: about 18–20 minutes.
* Hot and fast for juicy meat with more caramelized surface.
  • 450°F (230°C):
    • Medium 8 oz breasts: about 20 minutes.
* Larger 12 oz pieces: closer to 30 minutes.

No matter the oven temperature, the chicken is properly done when the thickest part reaches 165°F (74°C) on an instant‑read thermometer.

Simple go‑to formula

If you just want a solid baseline for tonight:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C).
  1. Season chicken breasts and place them in a lightly greased baking dish.
  1. Bake about 20 minutes, then start checking the internal temperature.
  1. Pull them out as soon as they hit 165°F (74°C).
  1. Let rest 5–10 minutes before slicing so juices redistribute.

This method gives you juicy, versatile chicken you can slice for salads, pasta, or meal prep.

Why times vary

  • Thickness and weight:
    • Smaller (4–6 oz) breasts cook faster, especially at 375–400°F.
* Larger (8–12 oz) or very thick pieces need extra minutes, even at higher temps.
  • Bone‑in vs boneless:
    • Times above assume boneless, skinless breasts.
* Bone‑in pieces usually need more time at the same temp.
  • Oven quirks:
    • Ovens can run hot or cool, which is why the thermometer is your best “truth meter.”

Quick “forum‑style” tip

“Bake hot and quick: high temp like 425°F, 18–20 minutes, then rest. Season well and don’t overcook — the thermometer is your best friend.”

Mini TL;DR

  • Pick a temp: 375–425°F is the sweet spot for most home ovens.
  • Time: 18–30 minutes depending on size and thickness.
  • Target: Pull at 165°F internal and rest a few minutes before cutting.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.