Herb Roasted Chicken Breast | Easy Spring Dinner
Herb Roasted Chicken Breast is the perfect dish when you’re craving something uncomplicated yet packed with flavor. This easy spring dinner option not only showcases the vibrant herbs that symbolize the season, but it also results in juicy, tender chicken with a golden crust that will have everyone at your table asking for seconds. There’s a certain warmth in the air when you pull this dish from the oven, and the aroma of fragrant herbs wafts through your home, making it impossible to resist.
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I remember the first time I made this herb roasted chicken breast after a long day. I was looking for something uncomplicated, an effortless way to transform simple chicken into a weeknight dinner. Using just a handful of ingredients, I felt like a culinary superstar while barely lifting a finger—and the best part? My family devoured every last bite! This recipe is not only easy on the wallet but guaranteed to impress your loved ones with its bright flavors. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: Ready in just about 30 minutes, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Irresistible Flavor: The blend of garlic, basil, thyme, and oregano makes for a savory delight.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: The golden color and herb crust create a stunning presentation.
- Flexible Serving: Great for family dinners, meal prep, or even a cozy date night.
- Diet-Friendly Options: Naturally gluten-free and low in carbs, this dish fits into various diets.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Lean and versatile, chicken breasts are the base of this recipe. Make sure they are fresh for the best flavor and tenderness. You can substitute with thighs for a juicier option.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, or avocado oil: This healthy fat helps to keep the chicken moist while allowing the herbs and spices to cling beautifully. If you prefer a different flavor, consider using sesame oil or melted butter.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: This adds a burst of savory warmth, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Fresh minced garlic is a great alternative—just use a bit less since it’s stronger!
- ½ teaspoon dried basil: A classic herb that brings freshness. If you have fresh basil on hand, chop about one tablespoon to use in its place.
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme: This herb is key in providing that earthy, aromatic backdrop. Rosemary can work well as a substitute if you’re looking for a slightly different flavor.
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano: It gives an Italian twist to the overall dish. You can use Italian seasoning as a mixture of oregano, thyme, and basil—just adjust the amount as needed.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: These essential seasonings enhance all the flavors. Feel free to experiment with other spices like paprika or red pepper flakes for an added kick!
How to Make Herb Roasted Chicken Breast | Easy Spring Dinner
Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is crucial for getting that perfect, crispy exterior on your chicken.
Mix the Herbs: In a small bowl, combine the ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon dried basil, ½ teaspoon dried thyme, ½ teaspoon dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk them together until thoroughly mixed, creating a flavorful spice blend.
Coat the Chicken: Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts. This will ensure the herbs stick while providing moisture. Generously rub the mixed herbs on both sides of the chicken, ensuring every bit is coated for maximum flavor.
Bake the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish. Pop them into your preheated oven and cook for 20-25 minutes. They are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F and have a light golden color with juices running clear. You’ll know they’re cooking well when the kitchen starts smelling amazing.
Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This step is essential as it allows the juices to redistribute through the meat, keeping it juicy and tender. Then, slice, dish up, and enjoy!
Storing & Reheating
To store any leftover herb roasted chicken breast, allow it to cool completely at room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months; just be sure to seal it well in a freezer-safe bag or container to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through, or in the microwave for a couple of minutes. Keep in mind that refrigeration and reheating may alter the texture slightly, so feel free to add a dash of olive oil before serving to restore some moisture.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Use room temperature chicken for even cooking. Taking the chicken out of the fridge about 15 minutes before you start works best.
- Be careful not to overcook the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it hits 165°F to keep it juicy.
- For added flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in the herb mixture for a few hours or overnight before cooking.
- Experiment with different herbs based on the season! Fresh herbs or a mix depending on your pantry can bring a fun twist.
Herb Roasted Chicken Breast is not only a fantastic dish to serve on a spring evening; it’s made for experimenting. Whether pairing it with vibrant greens, garlicky mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad, there’s plenty of room for creativity. So, don’t be shy! Mix up the herbs, add a squeeze of lemon, or throw in some brightly colored vegetables before roasting. Enjoy this uncomplicated yet delicious recipe, and don’t forget to share your version!
Recipe FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes! You can use bone-in skins as well. However, adjust the cooking time to 30-35 minutes to ensure they are fully cooked through. The skin will also become nice and crispy.
What if I don’t have dried herbs?
No problem! You can use fresh herbs if they’re available. Generally, use three times the amount of fresh herbs for optimal flavor. Chop them coarsely and mix them with the oil before coating the chicken.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can season the chicken breasts a few hours ahead or even the day before. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This allows the flavors to deepen, resulting in even tastier chicken.
What’s a good side dish to serve with herb roasted chicken breast?
This herb roasted chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Roasted seasonal vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a light spring salad topped with citrus vinaigrette complement the flavors wonderfully.
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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: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Description
Enjoy the mouthwatering flavors of herb roasted chicken breast. This easy spring dinner showcases tender, juicy chicken infused with garlic and herbs, making it a delightful choice for quick meals and healthy eating.
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, mix together garlic powder, basil, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Lightly coat the chicken breasts in olive oil, then generously rub the spice mixture on both sides of the chicken.
- Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and cook for 20-25 minutes, depending on size.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute before serving.
Notes
For optimal flavor, let the chicken sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking.
Use fresh herbs if available for an extra burst of flavor.
Adjust cooking time based on the thickness of the chicken breasts.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
