
Description: These Easy Oven Baked Chicken Breasts are a simple, flavorful, and healthy meal option that comes together quickly with a marinade that packs a punch. The marinade is a perfect blend of tangy lemon, aromatic garlic, and savory herbs, giving the chicken breasts a mouthwatering flavor and keeping them juicy and tender. Baked to perfection, this dish is a great addition to your weeknight dinner rotation or meal prep for the week ahead!
Ingredients:
For the Marinade:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (around 1.5 lbs or 680g)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Marinade:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is coated evenly. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 1-2 hours. For even more flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking dish.
- Bake the Chicken:
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the prepared baking sheet or dish. Discard any leftover marinade. Bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Rest and Serve:
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices and ensures a moist, tender chicken breast. Serve with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Variations and Substitutions:
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Herb-Infused: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil instead of oregano for varied flavors.
- Citrusy Twist: Swap out the lemon juice for lime juice for a different citrus flavor profile.
Nutrition (Approximate per serving):
- Calories: 220 kcal (per chicken breast)
- Carbs: 3g
- Protein: 27g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
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