Herb-Roasted Chicken Breast
Incredibly juicy and tender chicken breast roasted with a fragrant blend of rosemary, thyme, and garlic. This simple, salt-free recipe delivers amazing flavor and is perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner.
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.Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- d.Pat the chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Season the chicken breasts
- b.In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, chopped rosemary, thyme, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- c.Place the chicken breasts in a larger bowl or on the prepared baking sheet.
- d.Pour the herb and oil mixture over the chicken, using your hands to rub it evenly on all sides.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Roast the chicken
- b.Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts on the baking sheet, leaving some space between each piece.
- c.Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear.
- d.For best results, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Rest and serve
- b.Remove the chicken from the oven and transfer it to a cutting board.
- c.Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat 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.
- 1For the best flavor, use fresh herbs. If you must use dried, use 1 teaspoon of each instead of 1 tablespoon.
- 2Don't overcrowd the baking sheet. Give the chicken space to ensure it roasts instead of steams.
- 3Patting the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning is a crucial step for achieving a beautiful golden-brown exterior.
- 4Letting the chicken rest after cooking is non-negotiable! It's the secret to a juicy, tender result.
- 5Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It's great for salads and sandwiches.
Adapt it for your goals.
Healthy
For a classic version (not salt-free), add 1 tsp of salt to the seasoning mix before rubbing it on the chicken.
quickQuick
Add the zest of one lemon to the herb mixture for a bright, citrusy flavor that complements the herbs.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the seasoning for a gentle kick of heat.
ketoKeto
This recipe is naturally keto-friendly. Serve it with low-carb sides like roasted asparagus or a fresh green salad.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Lean Protein
Chicken breast is packed with high-quality lean protein, essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
Heart-Healthy
This recipe is completely salt-free, which helps support healthy blood pressure levels and cardiovascular health.
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.
Supports Weight Management
The high protein content helps you feel full and satisfied, making it a great component of a balanced diet for weight management.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is very healthy. Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, and this recipe uses heart-healthy olive oil and avoids salt, making it great for a low-sodium diet.