Herb Roasted Chicken Breast | Easy Spring Dinner
Herb Roasted Chicken Breast | Easy Spring Dinner is a delightful dish that perfectly captures the essence of spring. With its fragrant blend of dried herbs and a golden, juicy chicken breast, it’s hard not to think of picnics and sunshine when you take a bite. The simple preparation allows the flavors to shine through, making it a fantastic choice for a weeknight family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends.
Table of Contents
I first discovered this recipe on an unassuming Tuesday evening when I was in need of something quick yet delicious. What struck me most was how effortlessly the herbs transformed the chicken into a mouthwatering main course. With just a handful of ingredients and little time, I turned an ordinary dinner into a culinary experience. If you find yourself craving something satisfying that won’t break the bank, let me encourage you to try this Herb Roasted Chicken Breast | Easy Spring Dinner!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Irresistible Flavor: The aromatic herbs combined with juicy chicken create an unforgettable taste.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: The golden crust and fragrant aroma make it a feast for the senses.
- Flexible Serving: Great for a simple family meal or fancy enough for a dinner party.
- Diet-Friendly Options: Naturally gluten-free, and you can easily adapt it for other diets.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show! Choose high-quality, fresh chicken for the best results.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil: Used to keep the chicken moist and help the herbs stick. Avocado oil offers a slightly nuttier flavor.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds that lovely, savory depth. Fresh garlic can be used, but you’ll want to mince it finely.
- ½ teaspoon dried basil: This herb brings a touch of sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme: Earthy and slightly minty, thyme complements the chicken beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano: Oregano adds warmth and a Mediterranean flair.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential, simple seasoning to elevate the 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 high temperature is key for achieving that golden crust while keeping the chicken juicy and tender.
Mix the Spices: In a small bowl, combine ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon dried basil, ½ teaspoon dried thyme, ½ teaspoon dried oregano, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir these together until well blended, and breathe in that fragrant goodness!
Coat the Chicken: Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil (or avocado oil) over both of your 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Make sure to generously rub the spice mix on both sides of the chicken to ensure maximum flavor in every bite.
Bake the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and insert them into your preheated oven. Bake for about 20 to 25 minutes, depending on the size of your chicken breasts. You’ll know they’re done when they are browned and the juices run clear, or if you use a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
Let It Rest: Once out of the oven, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes. This step is crucial as it helps the juices redistribute within the meat, resulting in a more tender and juicy serving.
Storing & Reheating
To store leftovers, place your chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. If you’re planning to keep it longer, freeze your chicken for up to 3 months in a vacuum-sealed bag. When it’s time to enjoy it again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. Be mindful that freezing may affect the texture slightly, so refreshing it with a drizzle of olive oil before reheating can help.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Always ensure your chicken breasts are patted dry before applying oil and spices for the best sear and crust.
- Don’t skip the resting time after cooking; this will keep your chicken juicy.
- If you’re short on time, you can pound the chicken to an even thickness for quicker cooking and even baking.
- Experiment with the herbs based on your preference. Fresh herbs can also be used; just increase the quantity since they’re less potent.
- For a little zing, add a splash of lemon juice during the last few minutes of baking.
Tasting the difference between homemade and store-bought is unmistakable. With this simple yet delicious recipe, you have the power to whip up something special with minimal effort and ingredients.
What better way to welcome spring than with a fantastic dinner that’s as nutritious as it is scrumptious?
Recipe FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless?
Absolutely! You can use bone-in chicken, but be mindful that it will require a longer cooking time—about 30-40 minutes—to ensure it’s fully cooked. Just be sure to check for that same internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prep the chicken by coating it in oil and spices a few hours ahead of time. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
What sides pair well with this dish?
Herb Roasted Chicken Breast pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables, a light salad, or garlic mashed potatoes for a complete meal that’s sure to impress.
How can I ensure my chicken stays juicy?
Using high-quality, fresh chicken and allowing it to rest after cooking are key factors in keeping the chicken moist. Also, baking it at a high temperature helps lock in those wonderful juices.
PrintMore Dinner Recipes
- OMG Chicken
- Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake
- Spatchcock Turkey
- Crockpot White Chicken Chili
- Cranberry Balsamic Chicken Sheet Pan Meal with Veggies
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 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
Experience tender Herb Roasted Chicken Breast, featuring fragrant herbs and a simple preparation. This dish not only highlights fresh flavors but also serves as a healthy, quick dinner option that’s sure to satisfy any palate.
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 425°F (220°C).
- In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, dried basil, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Lightly coat each chicken breast with olive oil, then rub the spice mixture on both sides thoroughly.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts into a baking dish.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken breasts.
- Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in the spice mix for a few hours before baking.
Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 284
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 50g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
