This garlic boneless baked chicken breast recipe delivers juicy, tender chicken infused with aromatic garlic and herbs. It’s a simple, healthy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a quick dinner with the family. The combination of olive oil, lemon, and fragrant spices elevates the chicken, making it both flavorful and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I absolutely love this recipe because it’s straightforward, quick, and packed with flavor. The chicken breasts turn out so juicy and tender, and the garlic and herbs make it taste like something you’d get at a restaurant. I also love how versatile it is; I can serve it with a variety of sides, and it always tastes amazing. Plus, it’s a healthy option, with a light marinade that enhances the natural flavor of the chicken without overwhelming it.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
3 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp dried thyme
1/4 tsp black pepper
Juice of 1 lemon
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
Preheat the Oven: I start by preheating my oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish. This ensures the chicken won’t stick as it bakes.
Prepare the Chicken: I pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture, which helps the marinade stick better. Then, I place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, I whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, oregano, thyme, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. This marinade gives the chicken a delicious depth of flavor with a nice balance of spices and tang from the lemon.
Coat the Chicken: I pour the marinade over the chicken breasts, making sure each one is evenly coated. If I have a little extra time, I let the chicken marinate for about 10-15 minutes to really absorb the flavors.
Bake: I place the chicken in the oven and bake it for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). I usually baste the chicken halfway through the cooking time to keep it extra moist and flavorful.
Rest and Serve: Once the chicken is done, I remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute. I finish by garnishing with chopped fresh parsley and serve it with whatever sides I’m in the mood for.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Variations
Add Spice: If I want to add a little heat, I’ll sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the marinade for a kick.
Herb Variations: I sometimes swap the dried oregano and thyme with fresh herbs like rosemary or basil to give it a fresh twist.
Citrus Twist: I love experimenting with different citrus fruits—sometimes I’ll use lime juice instead of lemon for a different flavor profile.
Marinate Longer: For more intense flavor, I’ll let the chicken marinate for a couple of hours in the fridge or even overnight.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The chicken will remain moist, especially if you keep some of the pan juices.
Reheating: I like reheating the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, I can microwave it, but the oven helps maintain the juicy texture.
Related Recipes:
- Stuffed Meatloaf on the Stovetop
- Honey Garlic Chicken RECIPE
- Grilled Stuffed Chicken Breast: A Must-Try Recipe!
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can. However, bone-in chicken will take longer to cook. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken ahead of time, even the night before, for maximum flavor. Simply cover and refrigerate until ready to cook.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. The chicken is safe to eat once it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Can I freeze this chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken. Just make sure to let it cool down before placing it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It should be good for up to 3 months.
What sides go well with garlic baked chicken?
I love pairing this with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a simple green salad. You can also serve it with pasta for a more filling meal.
Conclusion
This garlic boneless baked chicken breast is one of those recipes that I turn to again and again. It’s simple to make, packed with flavor, and can easily be customized to suit my taste. Whether I’m cooking for the family or prepping a quick meal, this chicken is always a winner. With juicy, tender meat and a delicious garlic-herb marinade, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen, too!
📖 Recipe:
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Garlic Boneless Baked Chicken Breast
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Garlic Boneless Baked Chicken Breast recipe combines juicy, tender chicken with aromatic garlic, fresh lemon, and a blend of herbs. It’s a quick, healthy meal perfect for weeknights, offering a delicious homemade taste that’s easy to prepare. Marinated in olive oil, garlic, and spices, this baked chicken is flavorful, moist, and versatile enough to pair with various sides for a complete meal.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring the marinade sticks well. Place the chicken in the prepared baking dish.
- Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, oregano, thyme, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice.
- Coat the Chicken: Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each breast is evenly coated. Let it marinate for 10-15 minutes (optional, for more flavor).
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). For extra juiciness, baste the chicken halfway through the cooking process.
- Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes after baking. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with your favorite sides.
Notes
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes or microwave for a faster option.
Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Make sure it’s fully cooled before freezing.
Marinate Longer: Marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours for more intense flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Chicken
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 280 kcal per serving
