This oven-baked lemon herb chicken breast is a simple yet flavorful dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner. The combination of fresh lemon juice, herbs, and garlic creates a delicious marinade that keeps the chicken juicy and tender.
The recipe is straightforward and requires minimal ingredients, making it easy to prepare. Serve it alongside your favorite vegetables or grains for a complete meal.
Preparation of the Lemon Herb Marinade
Creating a flavorful marinade is key to achieving juicy and tender chicken. Start by combining fresh lemon juice with olive oil, minced garlic, and a selection of herbs.
The combination of oregano and thyme brings a delightful aroma, while salt and pepper enhance the overall taste.
Mix these ingredients well, ensuring that the garlic is evenly distributed throughout the marinade. This mixture will not only infuse the chicken with flavor but also help keep it moist during baking.
Marinating the Chicken
Once the marinade is ready, it’s time to prepare the chicken. Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish.
Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated.
For the best results, let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes, though a longer marinating time of up to 2 hours will deepen the flavors even more.
Baking to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure an even cook.
After marinating, remove the chicken from the marinade and place it in a baking dish.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This step is crucial for achieving that golden brown exterior while keeping the inside juicy.
Serving Suggestions
Once the chicken is baked, allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing.
This resting period helps retain the juices within the chicken, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful.
Garnish with fresh lemon slices and parsley for a vibrant presentation. Serve alongside steamed vegetables drizzled with olive oil for a balanced meal.
Creating an Inviting Presentation
The visual appeal of a dish can enhance the dining experience.
For this lemon herb chicken, use a white plate to contrast the golden-brown chicken and colorful vegetables.
The rustic wooden table adds warmth to the presentation, making it inviting and perfect for any occasion.
Nutrition and Serving Information
This oven-baked lemon herb chicken is not only delicious but also nutritious.
Each serving contains approximately 220 calories, with 30 grams of protein, making it a healthy choice for a main course.
With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering.
Easy Baked Lemon Chicken Breast Recipe
This recipe features chicken breasts marinated in a zesty lemon and herb mixture, then baked to perfection. It takes about 30 minutes from start to finish and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Lemon slices for garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it is well coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
- Bake the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it in a baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with lemon slices and fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot with your choice of sides.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 220kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 2g