Herb Baked Chicken Breast
Perfectly juicy and tender baked chicken breast seasoned with a simple blend of classic herbs and garlic. A healthy, versatile protein that's ready in under 30 minutes, ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
For 4 servings
Preheat oven and prepare the chicken
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This helps the seasoning stick and promotes better browning.
- If the breasts are uneven in thickness, you can pound the thicker end gently to ensure even cooking.
Season the chicken
- In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, dried rosemary, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.
- Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish or on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Rub the herb and oil mixture evenly over all sides of each chicken breast.
Bake the chicken
- Arrange the seasoned chicken in a single layer in the baking dish, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- The most accurate way to check for doneness is with a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.
Rest and serve
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest on a cutting board for 5-10 minutes.
- This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken breast.
- Slice against the grain and serve warm.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the juiciest chicken, do not overbake. Use a meat thermometer for perfect results every time.
- 2Letting the chicken rest before slicing is crucial. Cutting into it too soon will cause all the delicious juices to run out.
- 3Feel free to use other dried herbs like oregano, basil, or an Italian seasoning blend.
- 4For easy cleanup, line your baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
- 5Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It's great for salads, sandwiches, and wraps.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy
Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for a little kick of heat.
healthyHealthy
Serve with a side of steamed green beans or a large garden salad for a complete, low-calorie meal.
quickQuick
Cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes before seasoning and baking. They will cook faster, in about 12-15 minutes.
gluten freeGluten free
This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Ensure all your dried herbs and spices are certified gluten-free if you have a high sensitivity.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Lean Protein
Chicken breast is packed with high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
Low in Fat and Calories
As a lean meat, skinless chicken breast is low in saturated fat and calories, making it a great choice for weight management and heart health.
Rich in B Vitamins
Chicken is a good source of B vitamins like Niacin (B3) and B6, which help the body convert food into energy and support brain health.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is a very healthy dish. Skinless chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, low in fat and calories. Baking is a healthy cooking method that doesn't require much oil.
