Description
This Garlic Boneless Baked Chicken Breast recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts marinated in a flavorful blend of garlic, herbs, lemon juice, and olive oil, then baked to perfection. It’s a simple, healthy, and delicious meal perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Marinade
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Juice of 1 lemon
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking during cooking.
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture which helps the marinade stick better. Place them evenly spaced in the prepared baking dish.
- Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice until well combined.
- Coat the Chicken: Pour the marinade over the chicken breasts, making sure each piece is evenly coated. For enhanced flavor, let the chicken marinate for 10-15 minutes before baking (this step is optional).
- Bake the Chicken: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). To keep the chicken juicy, baste it halfway through the cooking time with the marinade juices.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve with your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 1 hour in the refrigerator before baking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- You can swap dried herbs with fresh if available, but reduce the quantity by half.
- If baking multiple chicken breasts, ensure they are spaced evenly to allow proper air circulation and even cooking.
- Pair with roasted vegetables, steamed rice, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
