Description
Herb Baked Chicken Breast is a simple and flavorful dinner option featuring juicy, tender chicken breasts infused with fresh rosemary, thyme, garlic, and a bright citrus twist from lemon. This easy-to-make recipe locks in moisture for perfect juiciness, uses pantry staples paired with fresh herbs, and delivers a healthy, wholesome meal suitable for quick preparation and versatile serving options.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Herb Marinade
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the herb marinade: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, chopped fresh rosemary, thyme, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir gently until all the herbs and liquid are fully mixed into a fragrant marinade.
- Season the chicken breasts: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to help the marinade stick. Place them in a shallow dish and generously coat each breast in the herb marinade. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, then let them marinate for at least 15 minutes for best results.
- Preheat the oven and prepare the baking pan: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.
- Bake the chicken breasts: Arrange the marinated chicken breasts in the prepared pan, making sure they are spaced evenly. Pour any leftover marinade over the top for added flavor. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and juices run clear.
- Rest then serve: Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This helps redistribute juices for a moist, tender finish. Slice and serve as desired.
Notes
- Use room temperature chicken: Let the chicken sit out for 15 minutes before cooking to ensure even baking.
- Don’t overcrowd: Give each breast enough space in the pan so heat circulates properly for uniform cooking.
- Fresh herbs matter: Use fresh whenever possible, as dried herbs won’t give the same bright flavor.
- Check internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking and maintain juiciness.
- Marinate longer if possible: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 34 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
Keywords: herb baked chicken breast, baked chicken, healthy chicken recipe, easy chicken dinner, juicy chicken breast, gluten free dinner