Herbed Chicken Breast
Perfectly juicy baked chicken breasts coated in a fragrant, salt-free herb blend. This simple recipe is a fantastic, healthy option for weeknight dinners or meal prepping, ready in under 30 minutes.
For 4 servings
4 steps.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Preheat the oven and prepare the chicken
- b.Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- c.Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick and promotes better browning.
- d.If the breasts are uneven, pound the thicker end gently to ensure even cooking.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Season the chicken
- b.In a small bowl, mix together the dried thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt.
- c.Rub the chicken breasts all over with the olive oil.
- d.Sprinkle the herb mixture evenly over all sides of the chicken, pressing it in gently.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Bake the chicken
- b.Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer in a baking dish or on a baking sheet.
- c.Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- d.For best results, use a meat thermometer. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Rest and serve
- b.Remove the chicken from the oven and transfer to a cutting board.
- c.Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
- d.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.
- 1Don't overbake the chicken. Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure it's cooked perfectly without drying out.
- 2Pounding the chicken to an even thickness is a key step for uniform cooking.
- 3Feel free to change up the herbs. Dried oregano, marjoram, or a pinch of sage also work wonderfully.
- 4For meal prep, let the chicken cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- 5This chicken is delicious on its own, sliced over a salad, or used in sandwiches and wraps.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy
Add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the herb blend for a little kick.
quickQuick
Slice the chicken into thinner cutlets before seasoning. They will bake in about 10-12 minutes.
healthyHealthy
Serve with a large portion of steamed green beans and a side of quinoa for a balanced, high-fiber meal.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Serve the sliced chicken with a low-sodium dipping sauce like unsalted ketchup or a simple yogurt-dill dip.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Lean Protein Source
Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
Heart Healthy
This low-sodium preparation helps manage blood pressure and supports cardiovascular health, making it a great choice for a heart-conscious diet.
Supports Weight Management
High in protein and low in calories, this dish can help you feel full and satisfied, aiding in weight management goals.
Rich in B Vitamins
Chicken is a good source of B vitamins like niacin and B6, which are crucial for energy metabolism and brain health.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, this recipe is very healthy. It's high in lean protein, low in fat, and specifically designed to be low in sodium, which is beneficial for heart health and blood pressure management.