Picture this: it’s a busy weeknight, and you’re craving something delicious, healthy, and easy to make. You open your fridge and find some chicken breasts, a few fresh herbs, and a lemon. What can you whip up with these simple ingredients? Enter the baked chicken with herbs recipe, a dish that’s not only flavorful but also incredibly easy to prepare. This herb-baked chicken breast is perfect for those who want a nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Baked chicken with herbs is a versatile dish that satisfies various palates. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers a tender, juicy chicken breast packed with the fragrant flavors of herbs like thyme, rosemary, and oregano. Pair it with roasted veggies or a fresh salad, and you’ve got a balanced, delicious meal that’s hard to beat!
Recipe Name: Baked Chicken with Herbs
This baked chicken with herbs recipe is a perfect go-to for a healthy and flavorful meal. The chicken breasts are seasoned with a blend of fresh herbs and garlic, and then baked to juicy perfection. This recipe is simple to make, fast, and an ideal choice for busy evenings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 230 per serving
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh oregano
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Baked Chicken with Herbs Instructions:
Prepare the chicken: Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Ensure each side is well-coated with enough salt and pepper for maximum flavor.
Add herbs: Sprinkle fresh thyme, rosemary, and oregano evenly over the chicken breasts.
Bake: Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Let it cook in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Once the chicken is out of the oven, allow it to rest for about 5 minutes before plating to retain its juices and enhance the flavor.
Notes:
For extra flavor, you can marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a few hours or overnight.
If you’re short on fresh herbs, dried herbs work well too. Use 1/3 of the quantity since dried herbs are more concentrated.
Nutrition Information (per serving):
- Calories: 230
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 120mg
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and Easy: You can prepare and cook this baked chicken with herbs recipe in under 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Healthy: This dish is packed with lean protein and healthy fats, making it both nutritious and satisfying.
Budget-Friendly: With just a few simple ingredients, this recipe is easy on your wallet and great for meal prepping.
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: This recipe calls for boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but you can substitute with bone-in chicken breasts or thighs for a richer flavor.
Fresh Herbs: Thyme, rosemary, and oregano add a fresh, fragrant element to this dish. If fresh herbs aren’t available, dried ones are a great alternative and still pack a lot of flavor.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil helps lock in moisture and adds a subtle flavor. Feel free to swap the olive oil with avocado or even melted butter for a richer taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key to the depth of flavor in this recipe. If you’re short on time, garlic powder works in a pinch.
How to Make Baked Chicken with Herbs (Step-by-Step)
Prepping the Chicken: Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This helps the chicken brown nicely when baked.
Seasoning: Rub the chicken with olive oil, garlic, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Generously season with salt and pepper. You want the chicken to be well-coated to ensure maximum flavor.
Herbs: Sprinkle the thyme, rosemary, and oregano evenly over each breast. Don’t hesitate to press the herbs into the meat slightly, allowing the flavors to infuse as the chicken bakes.
Baking: Lay the chicken breasts on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Place the chicken in the oven at 375°F, allowing it to bake for roughly 25-30 minutes. For best results, use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken has hit an internal temperature of 165°F.
After the chicken is fully cooked, take it out of the oven and allow it to sit undisturbed for about 5 minutes to lock in the juices before serving. This helps retain the juices, ensuring the chicken stays moist.
Expert Tips for Success
Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allowing the chicken to rest after baking is crucial for maintaining its juiciness.
Use a Meat Thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked. Overcooked chicken becomes dry, while undercooked chicken is unsafe.
Marinate for More Flavor: If time allows, marinate the chicken for at least an hour before baking. This deepens the flavor and ensures the chicken is juicy.
Variations and Customizations
- Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or paprika to the seasoning for a spicy kick.
- Citrus Infusion: Swap the lemon for lime or orange juice to create a citrusy twist.
- Herb Substitutions: Try parsley, sage, or basil if you want to change the herb profile of this dish.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Storage: Store leftover baked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave the chicken, but it may become slightly dry.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Dishes: Serve this baked chicken with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
- Pair with Grains: For a more filling meal, pair the herb-baked chicken with quinoa, couscous, or wild rice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How to make baked chicken with herbs?
A: To make baked chicken with herbs, rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice. Sprinkle with fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, and oregano, and bake in the oven at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until fully cooked.
Q: Is it possible to substitute fresh herbs with dried ones?
A: Yes, dried herbs are a great substitute. Keep in mind that dried herbs have a stronger flavor, so you’ll only need about a third of the quantity used for fresh herbs.
Q: How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked?
A: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F. This ensures the chicken is perfectly cooked all the way through, while still staying moist and tender.
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Conclusion
Baked chicken with herbs is a timeless, simple dish that never fails to impress. Whether you’re serving it up for a family meal or preparing it for meal prep, this recipe is versatile, healthy, and most importantly—delicious. So next time you’re looking for a flavorful, no-fuss dinner, give this baked chicken with herbs recipe a try. Your taste buds will thank you!
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