Description
This High Protein Herb Garlic Baked Chicken is a flavorful, protein-packed dish that’s perfect for a quick and healthy meal. Tender chicken breasts are marinated with a fragrant blend of garlic, oregano, thyme, and lemon juice, then baked to juicy perfection, offering a delicious and nutritious option for any dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 chicken breasts
Marinade
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lemon, juiced
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot enough to bake the chicken evenly and lock in moisture.
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and freshly squeezed lemon juice, mixing thoroughly to create a flavorful marinade.
- Coat the Chicken: Take the chicken breasts and coat each piece evenly with the prepared marinade, ensuring all surfaces are covered for maximum flavor absorption.
- Arrange in Baking Dish: Place the marinated chicken breasts in a baking dish, spreading them out so they cook uniformly without overlapping.
- Bake the Chicken: Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear, indicating it is fully cooked.
- Rest Before Serving: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each bite is moist and tender.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours before baking.
- You can add fresh herbs like parsley or basil as a garnish before serving.
- If you prefer, swap chicken breasts for thighs, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
- Serve with steamed vegetables or a side salad for a balanced meal.
