How Long To Broil Chicken Breast For The Ultimate Flavor Boost!

Name: How Long To Broil Chicken Breast
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Ingredients: 2 large skinless (boneless chicken breasts (around 1.5 pounds)); 2 tablespoons olive oil (30 ml); 1 teaspoon garlic powder (5 g); 1 teaspoon onion powder (5 g); 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (5 g); Salt and black pepper to taste; Fresh lemon juice (optional, about 1 lemon)

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Hey there! If you’ve ever struggled with dry, bland chicken breast, I’ve got a game-changing solution for you—broiling! This quick and easy cooking method locks in moisture while creating a crispy, golden-brown crust that’s packed with flavor. Whether you need a fast weeknight meal or a healthy protein option, broiled chicken breast is about to become your new favorite dish.

I’ve always loved how versatile chicken breast is—it absorbs flavors like a sponge and pairs well with almost anything. But let’s be honest, it’s also one of the easiest meats to overcook. That’s why broiling is my go-to technique. With the right broiling time and temperature, you get tender, juicy chicken every single time—no fancy equipment or complicated steps needed!

In this guide, I’ll break down exactly how long to broil chicken breast based on thickness and oven settings, plus share pro tips to keep it from drying out. You’ll also discover the best marinades, seasoning variations, and common mistakes to avoid.

By the end, you’ll have all the tools to make perfectly broiled chicken breast—crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and full of flavor. Let’s get cooking!

What is Broiling & Why It’s the Best Way to Cook Chicken Breast?

Broiling is a high-heat cooking method that uses direct heat from above to cook food quickly. Think of it as an upside-down grill! This technique sears the chicken’s surface, locking in moisture while creating a beautiful caramelized crust. Chicken breast is not only a versatile protein but also an excellent source of essential nutrients, making it a healthy choice for any meal (source)

Broiling vs. Baking Chicken Breast: What’s the Difference?

Broiling: Uses high heat from the top element, cooking food faster with a crispy exterior.
Baking: Uses indirect heat, cooking more slowly and evenly. If you prefer baking, check out this guide on how long to bake thin chicken breast for the best results.
For the juiciest chicken, broiling is the way to go!

Why Broiling Retains Juiciness Better Than Other Methods

Quick cooking time reduces moisture loss.
Direct heat creates a sealed crust, trapping natural juices.
Minimal oil is needed, making it a healthier option!

The Best Broiling Temperature for Chicken Breast

Set your oven to 500°F (260°C) or the broil setting.
Place the oven rack 4-6 inches from the heating element.

How Long to Broil Chicken Breast for Perfect Texture?

Cooking time depends on the thickness of your chicken breast. Here’s a quick guide:

Chicken Thickness	Broiling Time Per Side	Total Time
½ inch (thin)	4-5 minutes	8-10 minutes
1 inch (medium)	5-7 minutes	10-14 minutes
1.5 inches (thick)	7-9 minutes	14-18 minutes

How to Use a Meat Thermometer for Perfect Doneness

Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part.
The safe internal temperature is 165°F (75°C).
Remove chicken at 160°F (71°C), as it will continue cooking while resting.

What Happens If You Overcook Broiled Chicken?

Solution? Marinate beforehand and monitor the broiling time closely.

The meat becomes dry and tough.

It loses flavor and juiciness.

Ingredients You Will Need

To make broiled chicken breast, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Here’s what I usually gather:

2 large skinless, boneless chicken breasts (around 1.5 pounds)
2 tablespoons olive oil (30 ml)
1 teaspoon garlic powder (5 g)
1 teaspoon onion powder (5 g)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (5 g)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh lemon juice (optional, about 1 lemon)

You’ll notice that the ingredient list is straightforward. You can easily find these in any grocery store, and I love that they don’t break the bank. If you’re cooking for more than two people, simply adjust the ingredient amounts accordingly!

Step-by-Step Guide to Broiling Chicken Breast in the Oven

Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of how to broil chicken breast. I remember the first time I tried it—I was amazed at how simple and straightforward it was. Here’s my go-to step-by-step guide:

Preheat Your Broiler: Start by preheating your oven’s broiler on high. This usually takes about 5-10 minutes. I like to leave my oven rack in the upper third of the oven, about 4-6 inches from the heat source.

Prepare the Chicken: While your broiler is heating up, pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This is important for achieving that nice browning.

Marinate: In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken breasts evenly with this mixture, making sure they’re fully covered. If you have time, let them marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature; this allows the flavors to really soak in.

Raw chicken breasts on a cutting board, being seasoned with olive oil and spices

Broil: Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil for easy cleanup, and put them under the broiler. Broil for 5-7 minutes on one side, then flip them over and broil for another 5-7 minutes on the other side. I always watch closely—broiling times can vary depending on the thickness of the chicken and your oven.

Check for Doneness: Stick a meat thermometer in to make sure your chicken hits 165°F (75°C). This is the safest and most reliable way to know your chicken is fully cooked without being dry.

Rest and Serve: Once done, take the chicken out and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute. If you’d like, squeeze some fresh lemon juice before slicing. Trust me, it adds a beautiful zing!

Tender, sliced broiled chicken breast on a plate with lemon wedges and fresh parsley for garnish

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Broiling Chicken Breast

Broiling is a quick and easy cooking method, but small mistakes can turn your juicy chicken breast into a dry, overcooked dish. Here are the most common errors and how to avoid them:

Overcooking the Chicken

Leaving chicken under the broiler too long results in dry, chewy meat. Use a meat thermometer and remove the chicken when it reaches 160°F (71°C)—it will rise to 165°F (75°C) as it rests.

Placing the Chicken Too Close to the Broiler

Chicken burns outside while staying raw inside. Position the oven rack 4-6 inches from the broiler for even cooking.

Skipping the Marinade or Seasoning

Unseasoned chicken lacks flavor and moisture. Use a marinade, dry rub, or oil-based seasoning for maximum taste.

Not Flipping the Chicken

Uneven cooking with one side too crispy. Flip halfway through to get an even golden-brown crust.

Skipping the Resting Time

Cutting into chicken immediately loses all the juices. Let chicken rest for five minutes to lock in moisture.

By avoiding these mistakes, your broiled chicken breast will be juicy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked every time.

How to Serve Broiled Chicken Breast

Serving broiled chicken breast is a breeze. I usually slice the chicken into strips and arrange them on a platter. You can pair it with a fresh salad, like a classic Caesar or a zesty Mediterranean mix. If I’m feeling extra fancy, I might also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables for a colorful touch.

For presentation, I like to add a wedge of lemon. It not only looks great but gives guests the option to drizzle a little extra citrus over the chicken. Personally, I adore a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to give it a pop of color and freshness.

Storing & Reheating Broiled Chicken Breast the Right Way

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare, but it happens!), you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, I recommend using the microwave for a quick fix, but there’s nothing like reheating in the oven to preserve the texture. Just cover it with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

You can also freeze any leftover chicken boxes in freezer-safe bags for up to three months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before storing, and always label your bags with the date!

Tips to Make Broiled Chicken Breast

Here are some of my top tips for ensuring your broiled chicken turns out perfectly every time:

Thickness Matters: If you have uneven chicken breasts, you can pound them to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
Temperature is Key: Let your chicken come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook more evenly.
Experiment with Flavors: Don’t be shy! Try different seasonings or marinades. Whether it’s teriyaki, lemon herb, or even a BBQ rub, the chicken will soak it all up beautifully.
Oven Maintenance: Keep an eye on your broiler. It’s powerful, and things can go from perfect to burnt in seconds!

Sliced broiled chicken breast with a golden crust, garnished with fresh parsley and served with lemon wedges on a white plate

Delicious Variations & Seasoning Ideas for Broiled Chicken

One of the best things about broiled chicken breast is how versatile it is! You can completely transform the flavor just by switching up the seasoning or marinade. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, smoky, tangy, or herbaceous, there’s a variation for you. Here are some delicious seasoning ideas to take your broiled chicken to the next level.

Spicy Broiled Chicken: Add a Fiery Kick

If you love bold, spicy flavors, this variation is for you! Adding heat enhances the natural savory taste of chicken while giving it an irresistible kick.

Spicy Seasoning Mix:

1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to spice tolerance)
1 tsp chili powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
Salt & black pepper to taste

How to Make It:

Mix all spices together in a small bowl.
Coat chicken breasts with olive oil, then rub the seasoning evenly on both sides.
Broil as directed (5-7 minutes per side).
For an extra kick, drizzle with hot sauce or squeeze fresh lime juice before serving.

Perfect Pairing: Serve with grilled corn, avocado salsa, or a cool yogurt dip to balance the heat.

Mediterranean-Style Broiled Chicken: Fresh & Zesty

This version is light, refreshing, and full of herbs. It’s perfect for anyone who loves bright citrus flavors and Mediterranean cuisine.

Herb & Citrus Marinade:

2 tbsp olive oil
Juice & zest of 1 lemon
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp thyme
½ tsp cumin
Salt & black pepper to taste

How to Make It:

Mix all marinade ingredients in a bowl.
Coat the chicken with the marinade and let sit for 15-30 minutes.
Broil until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or feta cheese for an authentic touch.

Perfect Pairing: Serve with Greek salad, hummus & pita, or roasted vegetables.

Asian-Inspired Broiled Chicken: Sweet & Savory

For a sticky, umami-rich glaze, try this soy-ginger marinade. It caramelizes beautifully under the broiler, giving the chicken a deep, savory-sweet crust.

Soy-Ginger Marinade:

2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
1 tsp grated fresh ginger
1 tsp sesame oil
1 tsp rice vinegar
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for spice)

How to Make It:

Whisk together all marinade ingredients.
Coat chicken and marinate for 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).
Broil until caramelized and slightly crispy on the edges.
Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.

Perfect Pairing: Serve with steamed jasmine rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a crisp Asian slaw.

Garlic Butter Broiled Chicken: Rich & Indulgent

For a restaurant-quality flavor, you can’t go wrong with garlic butter chicken. The butter helps keep the chicken super juicy, while the garlic adds an irresistible aroma.

Garlic Butter Sauce:

2 tbsp melted butter
1 tsp minced garlic
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp Italian seasoning
Salt & black pepper to taste

How to Make It:

Melt butter and mix in garlic and seasonings.
Brush the mixture over the chicken before and after broiling.
Broil until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
For extra richness, drizzle a little more garlic butter right before serving.

Perfect Pairing: Serve with mashed potatoes, buttered green beans, or a creamy pasta dish.

Smoky BBQ Broiled Chicken: Classic & Comforting

Love the taste of barbecue chicken but don’t want to fire up the grill? Broiling can create that same smoky, caramelized crust in just minutes!

BBQ Dry Rub:

1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp cumin
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper

How to Make It:

Mix all dry ingredients and rub evenly over the chicken.
Broil as directed, flipping once.
During the last 2 minutes, brush the chicken with your favorite BBQ sauce.
Let rest before serving to allow flavors to develop.

Perfect Pairing: Serve with coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans.

Mexican-Inspired Broiled Chicken: Zesty & Bold

This variation brings the bold, tangy flavors of Mexico straight to your kitchen. It’s perfect for tacos, burrito bowls, or fajitas!

Mexican Spice Blend:

1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp oregano
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
Juice of 1 lime

How to Make It:

Mix spices and lime juice together.
Rub evenly over the chicken and let sit for 15 minutes.
Broil until slightly charred and golden brown.
Serve with fresh cilantro and sliced avocado.

Perfect Pairing: Use in tacos, burrito bowls, or serve with Mexican rice & black beans.

Final Thoughts

There’s no need for boring, plain chicken when you have so many seasoning options to explore! Whether you crave spicy, smoky, citrusy, or sweet flavors, these variations will elevate your broiled chicken breast and make every meal exciting.

Which flavor are you trying first? Let me know in the comments below!

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FAQs About Broiling Chicken Breast

How long does it take to broil chicken breast?

Broiling chicken breast usually takes around 10-14 minutes, but it depends on the thickness and your oven. Just make sure the inside reaches 165°F (75°C) before serving!

Can I use frozen chicken?

While I recommend thawing your chicken for even cooking, if you’re in a pinch, you can broil frozen chicken but increase the cooking time significantly

What should I do if my chicken breasts are very thick?

If your chicken breasts are on the thicker side, I suggest butterflying them or pounding them down to ensure even cooking.

Why You Should Start Broiling Chicken Today!

Broiling chicken breast has become one of my go-to techniques in the kitchen. The speed, simplicity, and flavor make it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. I encourage you to give this method a try and infuse it with your personal touch, just like I have.

There’s something incredibly satisfying about pulling out a beautifully cooked chicken breast from the oven and knowing you made it with your own two hands. I can’t wait to hear about your experiences, so feel free to reach out and share your thoughts once you try it! Happy cooking!