Herb Roasted Chicken Breast | Easy Spring Dinner
Herb Roasted Chicken Breast is a delightful dish that brings freshness and warmth right to your dinner table. It’s a simple but satisfying meal that showcases the wonderful flavors of herbs combined with juicy chicken breast. I remember the first time I made this dish during a sunny spring evening. The aroma of the herbs wafting through the kitchen was simply enchanting! This recipe lends itself beautifully to the change in seasons, and it’s perfect for those days when you crave something light yet filled with flavor.
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What makes this herb baked chicken breast so special is not just its aromatic appeal but also the ease with which it comes together. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a dish that impresses any guest — or even just for a cozy evening at home. Plus, you can easily pair it with your favorite sides for a complete meal. So, grab your apron and get ready to enjoy this easy spring dinner that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: Whip this up in less than 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights!
- Irresistible Flavor: The blend of garlic, basil, thyme, and oregano creates a fragrant and savory coating.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: The golden-brown color and juicy texture make it as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
- Flexible Serving: Perfect for a family dinner, a spring gathering, or even meal prep for the week.
- Diet-Friendly Options: Naturally gluten-free and can be made low-carb, accommodating various dietary preferences.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: This cut cooks quickly, stays juicy, and easily absorbs flavors.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, or avocado oil: Provides moisture and helps spices adhere better to the chicken.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a lovely depth of flavor without overpowering the herbs.
- ½ teaspoon dried basil: Contributes a sweet and aromatic note that brightens the dish.
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme: Offers an earthy taste that complements the chicken beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano: Brings a slightly bitter and robust flavor that ties the herbs together.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in your dish.
How to Make Herb Roasted Chicken Breast | Easy Spring Dinner
Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and gets that nice golden-brown finish.
Prepare the Spice Mix: In a small bowl, combine ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon dried basil, ½ teaspoon dried thyme, ½ teaspoon dried oregano, along with salt and pepper to taste. Mix these until they are well combined. The aroma will hint at the deliciousness to come.
Coat the Chicken: Lightly coat both chicken breasts with 1 tablespoon of olive oil (or avocado oil) to help keep the meat moist. Then, take your herb mixture and rub it generously on both sides of the chicken. Make sure every inch is covered. This step really infuses the chicken with flavor!
Bake the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish, making sure there’s some space between them. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and juices run clear. If you want, you can check for doneness by using a meat thermometer or by cutting the chicken open to ensure it’s no longer pink inside. The edges should be golden and slightly crispy.
Let it Rest: Once done, take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, ensuring each bite is juicy and tender. After resting, slice and serve with your favorite spring sides!
Storing & Reheating
To store your herb roasted chicken, let it cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you need to store it longer, freeze the chicken by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, and it will last up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, simply place the chicken back in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through. Note that reheating may alter the texture slightly, so for a moisture boost, you can cover it with foil while warming.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Always ensure your chicken is at room temperature before cooking for even cooking.
- To enhance flavor, marinate the chicken with the herb mixture in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours before baking.
- Cook times may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts, so it’s best to use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Consider adding a splash of lemon juice or white wine to the baking dish for an extra layer of flavor.
- Serve the chicken on a bed of mixed spring greens for a vibrant meal that’s healthy and satisfying.
Herb Roasted Chicken Breast is not only a wonderful center-point for a meal but also a great canvas for your culinary creativity.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! If using bone-in chicken, adjust your cooking time to 30-35 minutes, and check for a temperature of 165°F (75°C). The bone keeps the meat juicy and enhances the flavor.
What side dishes pair well with herb roasted chicken breast?
This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, a light pasta salad, or even a fresh garden salad. You could also serve it with couscous or quinoa for a wholesome meal.
Can I make this chicken on the grill?
Yes! Simply preheat your grill to medium-high, season your chicken as directed, and grill for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). It will acquire a wonderful smoky flavor!
How can I enhance the flavor of this chicken?
Consider marinating your chicken in the herb mixture for a couple of hours before cooking. You can also add a dash of your favorite hot sauce, or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for a different flavor profile.
With its blend of simplicity and savory goodness, Herb Roasted Chicken Breast serves as an effortless highlight for any meal. It’s a recipe that invites creativity and experimentation, allowing you to make it your own. So, gather your ingredients, savor the process, and enjoy this delicious dish with your loved ones!
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📖 Recipe Card
Herb Roasted Chicken Breast | Easy Spring Dinner
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Herb Roasted Chicken Breast is a delightful choice for a quick and satisfying dinner. Featuring a blend of herbs and spices, it delivers a burst of flavor with minimal effort. Perfect for those busy evenings when you desire something wholesome and delicious!
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, or avocado oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425F/220C.
- In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, basil, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Lightly coat the chicken breasts with olive oil.
- Generously rub the spice mixture on both sides of the chicken.
- Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, ensuring they are cooked through.
- Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the spice mix for 30 minutes before cooking.
Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the chicken breasts.
Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 46g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
