Let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of *Baked Lemon Herb Chicken* wafting through the kitchen! This dish has become my go-to for those busy weeknights when I want something that’s not just quick, but bursting with flavor. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up juicy chicken breasts that are perfectly seasoned with bright lemon and fragrant herbs. I remember the first time I made this for my family; they were skeptical at first, but one bite had them hooked! The balance of zesty lemon and savory herbs creates a symphony of taste that makes even the simplest dinner feel special. Plus, it’s so easy that I can get it ready while the kids are finishing up their homework. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll be a staple in your dinner rotation too!
Ingredients List
To make your *Baked Lemon Herb Chicken* come to life, you’ll need these simple yet flavorful ingredients:
- For the Chicken:
- 4 pieces of chicken breasts
- For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup of olive oil
- 2 teaspoons of lemon juice (freshly squeezed for the best flavor)
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
Gathering these ingredients will set you up for a delicious, zesty dish that’s perfect for any night of the week! Make sure to have everything within reach when you start, as it’ll make the cooking process even smoother.
How to Prepare Baked Lemon Herb Chicken (30 min)
Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s get that oven preheating! You’ll want to set it to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for achieving that golden, crispy exterior while keeping the chicken juicy inside. Trust me, your kitchen will smell amazing as it heats up!
Prepare the Marinade
Now, let’s whip up that zesty marinade. In a medium-sized bowl, combine 1/4 cup of olive oil, 2 teaspoons of fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Give it a good whisk until everything is nicely blended. This marinade not only flavors the chicken but also helps keep it moist while it bakes. I always like to taste a tiny bit to make sure it’s just right—feel free to adjust the seasoning to your liking!
Coat and Bake the Chicken
Next, it’s time to coat those chicken breasts! Place the chicken in a baking dish and pour the marinade over them, making sure each piece is well-coated. I like to use my hands for this part—don’t be afraid to get a little messy! Spread the chicken out in a single layer for even cooking. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes. To check for doneness, simply cut into the thickest part of a breast; the juices should run clear and the meat should be no longer pink. If you have a meat thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Let it Rest
Once your chicken is out of the oven, resist the temptation to dive right in! Let it rest for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial because it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, making every bite even more flavorful. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for this recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and have a bit more flavor, which pairs wonderfully with the lemon herb marinade. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as thighs may take a few minutes longer to reach that perfect doneness.
Q2: How can I store leftover Baked Lemon Herb Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or enjoy it cold in salads or wraps for a quick lunch!
Q3: Can I make the marinade in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the marinade the night before and store it in the fridge. Just be sure to add the chicken to the marinade a few hours before cooking to really let those flavors soak in.
Q4: What should I serve with Baked Lemon Herb Chicken?
This dish pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or even some fluffy rice. The bright flavors complement a variety of sides, so feel free to get creative!
Q5: Can I freeze Baked Lemon Herb Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the chicken after it’s cooked. Just let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer bag. It’ll keep well for up to 3 months!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: In just 30 minutes, you can have a delicious, home-cooked meal on the table without any fuss.
- Flavorful Delight: The combination of zesty lemon and aromatic herbs creates a taste explosion that will have your taste buds dancing!
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and healthy fats, this dish is not only tasty but also nutritious.
- Versatile: Perfect for busy weeknights, but special enough for entertaining guests—everyone will love it!
- Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy this juicy, flavorful chicken, making family dinners a breeze.
Tips for Success
To ensure your *Baked Lemon Herb Chicken* turns out perfectly every time, here are my top tips:
- Marinating Time: For the best flavor, let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight if you have the time. This really helps the flavors penetrate the meat.
- Check for Doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—aim for that magical 165°F (75°C) mark. If you don’t have one, cut into the thickest part to ensure the juices run clear.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve your chicken with a drizzle of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh herbs right before serving to elevate the flavors even more.
These little tricks will help you achieve juicy, flavorful chicken every single time!
Nutritional Information Section
When you’re enjoying this *Baked Lemon Herb Chicken*, it’s nice to know what’s in it! Here are the estimated nutritional values per serving:
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Potassium: 500mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. It’s always a good idea to check labels for the most accurate information!
What to Serve with Baked Lemon Herb Chicken
When it comes to sides for your *Baked Lemon Herb Chicken*, you’ve got plenty of delicious options! I love pairing it with a fresh arugula salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette; the peppery greens complement the zesty chicken perfectly. You can also whip up some roasted asparagus or steamed green beans, which add a lovely crunch and vibrant color to your plate. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes soak up those lovely lemony juices beautifully. Whatever you choose, these sides will make your meal feel complete and oh-so-satisfying!
For more delicious recipes, check out my One Pan Lemon Herb Chicken and Potatoes recipe!
Follow me on Pinterest for more inspiration!
Baked Lemon Herb Chicken
Equipment
- Oven
- Baking dish
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 pieces chicken breasts
For the Marinade
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the chicken breasts with the marinade and place them in a baking dish.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.