Easy Lemon Herb Baked Chicken Breast
User Reviews
4.8
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Cook Time
20 mins
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Marinating Time
30 mins
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Total Time
55 mins
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Servings
4 servings
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Calories
210 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
Easy Lemon Herb Baked Chicken Breast
Description
The chicken breasts are marinated in a mixture of lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, lemon pepper seasoning, dried basil and oregano, and salt. This mixture infuses the meat with citrusy acidity and herbal scent, helping tenderize and flavor the chicken evenly. Marinating time ranges from 30 minutes up to 8 hours to accommodate scheduling flexibility.
After marinating, the chicken is placed in a baking dish with lemon slices atop each breast, which release additional citrus flavor and moisture during baking. The chicken is baked at a high temperature (450°F) to cook through quickly while maintaining juiciness. It is done when internal temperature reaches 165°F.
For a hint of browning and color, the chicken can be broiled briefly after baking to finish. Fresh parsley sprinkled on top adds a mild fresh herb note and visual appeal.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breast boneless skinless
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 teaspoons lemon pepper
- 1 teaspoon basil dried
- 1 teaspoon oregano dried
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 large lemon thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons parsley optional, chopped, fresh
Instructions
- Place 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts in a gallon-size resealable plastic bag. Pour in 1/2 cup lemon juice, 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, 2 teaspoons lemon pepper, 1 teaspoon dried basil, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Seal the bag and shake it a bit so that all the chicken gets covered.
- Let marinate in the fridge for 30 minutes or up to 8 hours.
- Preheat oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and place in a 9x13 pan. Discard any remaining marinade. Place 1 large lemon of slices on top.
- Cook chicken for 18-20 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Serve hot. Garnish with 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional).
Notes
- Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes or up to 8 hours in refrigerated conditions for best flavor absorption.
- Broil the chicken for 2 to 3 minutes after baking to add golden color if desired.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
- Fresh parsley garnish is optional but adds a mild herb aroma and color contrast to the dish.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 210 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1chicken breast | |
| Calories | 210kcal | 11% |
| Carbohydrates | 6g | 2% |
| Protein | 25g | 50% |
| Fat | 10g | 15% |
| Saturated Fat | 2g | 10% |
| Cholesterol | 72mg | 24% |
| Sodium | 279mg | 12% |
| Potassium | 511mg | 11% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 1g | 2% |
| Vitamin A | 202IU | 4% |
| Vitamin C | 30mg | 33% |
| Calcium | 33mg | 3% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.