Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat Oven – Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line with parchment paper.
- Step 2: Prepare Marinade – In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Step 3: Season Chicken – Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Place them in the prepared baking dish and pour the lemon herb marinade evenly over each piece, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Step 4: Marinate (Optional) – For enhanced flavor, let the chicken marinate at room temperature for 15-20 minutes. If you have more time, marinate in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours.
- Step 5: Bake Chicken – Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the thickest part of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.
- Step 6: Rest and Serve – Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest in the baking dish for 5 minutes before slicing or serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
This versatile lemon herb chicken pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, fluffy quinoa, or a fresh garden salad. Feel free to experiment with other herbs like fresh thyme or rosemary for a slight variation in flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, High-Protein, Low-Carb
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (approx. 4 oz)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0.1 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
Keywords: chicken, baked chicken, lemon herb chicken, easy chicken, quick dinner, healthy chicken, weeknight meal, lean protein, savory