Description
These oven-baked lemon garlic chicken breasts are tender, juicy, and packed with citrusy, savory flavor. A quick marinade, a handful of simple ingredients, and about 30 minutes are all you need to get a delicious meal on the table. Perfect for busy weeknights or a simple, light dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6–8 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (from about half a lemon)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, but adds extra citrus flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or your favorite herb blend)
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
Instructions
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Prepare the Marinade:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest (if using), dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
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Marinate the Chicken:
- Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or a zip-top bag.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
- Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
Note: If marinating longer than 30 minutes, cover and refrigerate.
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Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly grease a baking dish or line with foil/parchment for easy cleanup.
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Bake the Chicken:
- Transfer the chicken breasts (along with any remaining marinade) into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts.
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Rest and Serve:
- Remove the dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing or serving. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
- Spoon any pan juices over the chicken for extra flavor.
Notes
- Marinade Variations: Try adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for a tangy twist or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a slight kick.
- Cooking Method: If you prefer grilling, cook chicken on a medium-high heat grill for about 5–7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C).
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or a side of rice/pasta.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus optional extra marinating time)
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking (Oven)
- Cuisine: American (with a Mediterranean twist)
Keywords: chicken breast recipe, baked lemon chicken, easy weeknight dinner, garlic chicken, healthy chicken recipe