![- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil - Juice of 2 large lemons - Zest of 1 lemon - 3 cloves garlic, finely minced - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped - 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme) - 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary) - 1 teaspoon paprika - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste When I think about Baked Lemon Herb Chicken, I get excited. The bright flavors of lemon and herbs make every bite special. Let’s dive into the ingredients that make this dish shine. First, you need chicken. I prefer boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. They cook evenly and stay juicy. The olive oil adds richness, while the lemon juice brings a tangy kick. Together, they create a marinade that does wonders. Next, the herbs and spices. The zest of one lemon adds a fresh aroma. Minced garlic brings depth of flavor. Fresh parsley gives a pop of color and taste. These elements blend perfectly to enhance the chicken. For seasoning, fresh thyme and rosemary add a lovely earthiness. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried ones work too. Paprika gives a subtle smokiness, while salt and pepper round out the flavors. These ingredients come together to create a juicy and flavorful delight. For the complete recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. - Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). - In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, parsley, thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper. - Place chicken breasts in a baking dish in a single layer. - Pour the marinade over the chicken, covering each piece well. - Bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes. Check that the internal temperature is 165°F (75°C). - For a golden finish, broil for another 2-3 minutes. This simple method ensures juicy, flavorful baked lemon herb chicken every time. For the full recipe, check the earlier section. For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. However, if you have more time, let it sit for up to 2 hours in the fridge. This extra time helps the chicken absorb all the tasty lemon and herb goodness. If you prepare the marinade the night before, it saves time on cooking day. Just remember to bring the chicken back to room temperature before cooking. To keep the chicken moist and tender, avoid overcooking. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature. Aim for 165°F (75°C) for safe eating. After cooking, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This step allows the juices to settle, making every bite juicy and flavorful. Garnish the chicken with fresh lemon slices and a sprinkle of chopped parsley. This adds a pop of color and freshness. Arrange the chicken on a platter and drizzle some of the leftover marinade on top. You can also serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal. Making the plate look nice enhances the dining experience. {{image_4}} You can switch up the herbs for baked lemon herb chicken. Try oregano or basil for a new taste. These herbs add unique flavors. If you use dried herbs, remember they are stronger. Use about one-third of the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh ones. Fresh herbs give bright notes. Dried herbs bring depth. To make this dish gluten-free, check your spices. Most spices are gluten-free, but always read labels. For a low-carb option, pair it with veggies instead of rice. If you want a vegan version, replace the chicken with firm tofu. Marinate the tofu just like the chicken for best flavor. For a kick, add cayenne pepper to your marinade. This spice gives it a nice heat. You can also play with citrus. Try using lime or orange juice instead of lemon juice. This change brightens the dish in a new way. Feel free to mix in other herbs or spices for even more flavor. For the full recipe, refer to the [Full Recipe]. To keep your baked lemon herb chicken fresh, store it in an airtight container. Place the chicken in the fridge within two hours of cooking. This helps keep it safe and tasty. You can enjoy leftovers for up to four days. If you want to save it longer, freeze the chicken. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. This way, it can last for up to three months in the freezer. When reheating, your goal is to keep the chicken juicy. A good method is to use the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in a baking dish with a splash of broth or water. Cover it with foil to trap the steam. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also use a microwave, but be careful. Heat it in short bursts to avoid drying it out. Leftovers are great for salads, sandwiches, or wraps. Just shred or slice the chicken and add it to your favorite dishes. Baked lemon herb chicken stays good in the fridge for four days. If frozen, it maintains quality for three months. Always check for signs that it has gone bad. A sour smell or a change in color means it's time to toss it. If the chicken feels slimy, do not eat it. Proper storage helps you enjoy this flavorful delight longer. Yes, you can use bone-in chicken. Bone-in chicken adds flavor and moisture. Just adjust your baking time. Bone-in pieces may take 10 to 15 minutes longer to cook. Check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C). Baked lemon herb chicken works great with many sides. Here are some of my favorites: - Roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers - A light salad with mixed greens and lemon vinaigrette - Garlic mashed potatoes or creamy polenta - Quinoa or couscous for a grain option These sides balance the flavors and add some crunch or creaminess to your meal. If you don’t have a thermometer, there are other ways to check doneness. First, cut into the thickest part of the chicken. The juices should run clear, not pink. Another method is to check the texture. Cooked chicken feels firm to the touch. If it feels soft or squishy, it needs more time. Always be cautious and double-check to avoid undercooking. You learned how to craft baked lemon herb chicken using simple, fresh ingredients. The steps from marination to baking ensure juicy and flavorful chicken. Remember to adjust herbs for different tastes and try out vegan options if desired. Proper storage keeps leftovers fresh. Enjoy your meal with great sides and impress your family. This recipe is not just about cooking; it's about sharing delicious moments together. Now, grab your ingredients and make this tasty dish!](https://yumymoments.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/84a23d68-4d58-4243-8671-d4ab005c7852-250x250.webp)
Baked Lemon Herb Chicken
Discover the vibrant flavors of Zesty Baked Lemon Herb Chicken that will brighten up your dinner table! This simple yet delicious recipe combines juicy chicken breasts with fresh herbs and zesty lemon for a flavorful dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, it’s quick to prepare and packed with taste. Click through to explore this easy recipe and bring a burst of flavor to your next meal!