Baking chicken in the oven is a delicious and easy way to prepare a tasty meal. One foolproof recipe that produces tender and flavorful chicken every time is "Baked Lemon Herb Chicken." Here's how you can make it:
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Lemon slices (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, dried rosemary, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Place the chicken breasts in a ziplock bag or a shallow dish, and pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap, making sure the chicken is well coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours for more flavor).
Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven is heating, take the chicken out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before baking.
Prepare the baking dish: Use a baking dish or sheet pan large enough to fit the chicken breasts without crowding them. You can line the dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Transfer the chicken to the baking dish: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it in the prepared baking dish. Discard the marinade.
Bake the chicken: Place the baking dish with the chicken in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts, so it's essential to use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Let it rest: Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and tender.
Garnish and serve: Before serving, garnish the chicken with lemon slices and fresh parsley for an extra pop of flavor and presentation.
This baked lemon herb chicken pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, steamed rice, or a fresh salad. It's a versatile and straightforward recipe that's sure to impress your family and guests alike. Enjoy your perfectly baked chicken!