Flavors Worth Savoring
Healthy Lemon Herb Baked Chicken Breast
Baked chicken breast often gets a bad rap for being dry and bland, but this Lemon Herb Baked Chicken Breast recipe is here to change that. Infused with fresh herbs, tangy lemon, and a touch of garlic, this dish is juicy, tender, and incredibly flavorful. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this healthy recipe is a must-try!
Recipe Overview
| Dish Type | Main Course |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | 4 servings |
| Difficulty Level | Easy |
| Cooking Time | 25 minutes |
| Overall Prep Time | 40 minutes |
| Calories | ~250 kcal per serving |
Table of Contents
- Why You’ll Love Lemon Herb Baked Chicken Breast
- Ingredients for Lemon Herb Baked Chicken Breast
- Step-by-Step Preparation Method
- Marinating the Chicken
- Baking the Chicken
- Tips for Juicy Baked Chicken Breasts
- How to Serve Lemon Herb Baked Chicken Breast
- Key Takeaways and Variations
Why You’ll Love Lemon Herb Baked Chicken Breast
This recipe strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and flavor. Lemon juice and fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, and rosemary infuse the chicken with brightness and depth, while a quick marinade ensures tenderness. Baking the chicken at the right temperature seals in all the juices, giving you a perfectly cooked and flavorful meal every time.
Ingredients for Lemon Herb Baked Chicken Breast
For the Chicken:
- 4 (6-ounce) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Step 1: Marinating the Chicken
- Prepare the marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, oregano, thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper.
- Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 15-30 minutes (up to 4 hours for maximum flavor).
Step 2: Baking the Chicken
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
- Arrange the chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade and place them in the prepared baking dish. Discard the leftover marinade.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
- Rest the chicken: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to retain its juices.
Tips for Juicy Baked Chicken Breasts
- Pound to Even Thickness: Use a meat mallet to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for consistent cooking.
- Don’t Overcook: Overbaking can make the chicken dry. Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
- Marinate Longer: The longer you marinate, the deeper the flavor will be. If you’re short on time, even 15 minutes makes a difference.
- Rest After Baking: Letting the chicken rest ensures the juices redistribute, making the chicken more tender and flavorful.
How to Serve Lemon Herb Baked Chicken Breast
This versatile dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas:
- Grains: Serve with quinoa, rice pilaf, or couscous for a filling meal.
- Vegetables: Pair with roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or a fresh garden salad.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a light, low-carb meal.
Key Takeaways and Variations
- Why This Recipe Stands Out: Fresh herbs, lemon, and garlic make this dish incredibly flavorful while keeping it healthy and light.
- Flavor Variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add ½ teaspoon of red chili flakes to the marinade for a spicy twist.
- Creamy Option: Drizzle a light yogurt or tahini sauce over the chicken before serving for added richness.
- Make It Your Own: Use different herbs like basil, cilantro, or dill to customize the flavor profile.
