Easy Oven-Baked Chicken Breast with Garlic and Herbs Recipe

If you’re craving a fuss-free meal that delivers juicy, tender chicken bursting with flavor, this Easy Oven-Baked Chicken Breast with Garlic and Herbs Recipe is going to become your new go-to. Imagine chicken breasts baked to perfection, flavored with fragrant garlic, a touch of Italian herbs, and a pat of butter that keeps every bite rich and succulent. It’s a simple recipe that doesn’t skimp on taste, perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you want a wholesome, satisfying dinner with minimal effort and maximum deliciousness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward but each one plays an essential role in creating that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and aroma. From the fresh garlic to the blend of herbs, every component brings something special to the table.

• Olive oil cooking spray: Helps keep the chicken from sticking without adding extra calories.
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Lean and tender, the star of the dish when trimmed of excess fat.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic infuses irresistible aroma and depth of flavor.
• Salt and fresh ground black pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the natural chicken flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds an extra garlicky punch that’s mellow and comforting.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings a subtle earthiness and classic Italian flair.
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Provides a fragrant mix of herbs that marry beautifully with the garlic.
• 1 tablespoon butter, cut into 4 pats: Melts over the chicken to add richness and keep the meat moist.
• Parchment paper: Locks in moisture while baking, ensuring juicy, tender chicken every time.

How to Make Easy Oven-Baked Chicken Breast with Garlic and Herbs Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by warming your oven to 400°F. This temperature is perfect for cooking the chicken quickly yet evenly, sealing in the juices and infusing it with your herbs and garlic.

Step 2: Grease the Baking Dish

Next, lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil cooking spray. This simple step prevents the chicken from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Step 3: Dry the Chicken

Patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels ensures the seasoning sticks beautifully and helps achieve that desirable texture on the outside.

Step 4: Season the Chicken

Rub a generous amount of minced garlic over each chicken breast for big, fresh flavor. Then season on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, oregano, and Italian seasoning. The aromatic herbs combined with garlic powder create a mouthwatering taste profile that feels like a warm hug.

Step 5: Add Butter and Cover

Place a small pat of butter on top of each chicken breast. Butter not only enriches each bite but also helps create a succulent crust. Cover the dish snugly with parchment paper to trap in steam and keep the chicken irresistibly moist.

Step 6: Bake Until Perfect

Bake for 30 to 33 minutes, or until the internal temperature hits 165°F. Using an instant-read meat thermometer is key to nailing the perfect cook without the guesswork involved.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Once baked, transfer your chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This resting step lets the juices redistribute, giving you tender, juicy chicken in every bite.

How to Serve Easy Oven-Baked Chicken Breast with Garlic and Herbs Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or basil over the chicken just before serving to add a burst of color and fresh herbal aroma. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can also brighten the dish and complement those garlicky, herby notes beautifully.

Side Dishes

This flavorful chicken pairs brilliantly with a variety of sides. Think roasted vegetables for a wholesome, colorful plate, creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the buttery juices, or a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast. Quinoa or brown rice also work wonderfully for a balanced meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the chicken breasts diagonally and fan them out over a bed of garlic mashed potatoes or tossed greens. For a dinner party twist, serve sliced chicken atop warm pasta tossed with olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs. It’s a versatile dish that effortlessly adapts to your mood and occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover chicken breasts in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Proper storage keeps the chicken moist and flavorful, so you can enjoy quick meals without sacrifice.

Freezing

If you want to keep the chicken longer, freeze it in a sealed freezer bag or container for up to 2 months. For best results, separate each breast with parchment or plastic wrap before freezing to keep them from sticking together.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 300°F covered with foil to avoid drying out, or microwave on medium power. Adding a splash of broth or water before reheating helps retain moisture and keeps that rich garlic and herb flavor intact.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! While this Easy Oven-Baked Chicken Breast with Garlic and Herbs Recipe specifically calls for boneless, skinless chicken breasts, chicken thighs can be used but will require slightly longer cooking time and yield a different texture. For thighs, you might want to check a dedicated recipe to get the best results.

Do I need to use parchment paper?

Parchment paper is recommended because it locks in moisture, giving you tender, juicy chicken. However, if you don’t have parchment, aluminum foil works as a fine substitute.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The best way is to use an instant-read meat thermometer. Chicken breasts are perfectly cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Letting the chicken rest ensures the juices settle, so don’t skip that step!

Can I add other herbs or spices?

Of course! This recipe is very flexible. Feel free to experiment with thyme, rosemary, paprika, or onion powder to make the dish your own. Just be mindful that some herbs are stronger than others, so start with small amounts.

Will this recipe work for thicker chicken breasts?

Yes, but thicker chicken breasts may need additional baking time. To ensure even cooking, consider pounding the chicken to an even thickness or simply test the temperature with a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Oven-Baked Chicken Breast with Garlic and Herbs Recipe proves that delicious meals don’t need to be complicated. With simple, honest ingredients and straightforward steps, you get tender, juicy chicken full of flavor every single time. I hope you give this recipe a try and make it a beloved part of your kitchen routine—it’s truly comfort food at its best!

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