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Herb Baked Chicken Breast

Herb Baked Chicken Breast


  • Author: Samuel
  • Total Time: 35-40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Herb Baked Chicken Breast recipe offers a juicy, tender, and flavorful meal made with fresh rosemary, thyme, garlic, and lemon juice. Quick to prepare and bake, it is a healthy, versatile dish perfect for weeknight dinners or meal rotations. Simple ingredients combined with easy steps create a delightful, aromatic dish that pairs beautifully with various sides or can be enjoyed on its own.


Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Herb Mixture

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (natural)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice (natural)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Variations

  • Pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes (for a spicy kick)
  • Fresh oregano or parsley (instead of rosemary and thyme)
  • Lemon zest (to add with lemon juice)
  • Smoked turkey bacon, crisped and crumbled (for topping)
  • 1 teaspoon honey (natural) (drizzled before baking)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure the olive oil and herbs adhere well. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper for balanced flavor.
  2. Create the Herb Mixture: In a small bowl, combine olive oil (natural), minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme leaves, and lemon juice (natural). Stir thoroughly to blend the fresh aromas into a fragrant marinade.
  3. Coat and Marinate: Brush the herb mixture evenly over each chicken breast, covering every part. For deeper flavor, allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
  4. Preheat Oven and Bake: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). Place the herb-coated chicken breasts on a baking tray lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius).
  5. Rest Before Serving: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This step helps the juices redistribute, ensuring each slice remains juicy and tender when served.

Notes

  • Pound chicken breasts gently to an even thickness to ensure consistent cooking.
  • Use fresh herbs for brighter and more vibrant flavors compared to dried herbs.
  • Check doneness with a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking and retain juiciness.
  • Resting the chicken after baking is crucial to keep it moist and tender.
  • Line your baking tray with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time if desired)
  • Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (approx. 150g)
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 220mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 1g
  • Fiber: 0.3g
  • Protein: 34g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: herb baked chicken breast, baked chicken, easy chicken recipe, healthy chicken, quick chicken dish, rosemary chicken, thyme chicken