Herb Roasted Chicken Breast | Easy Spring Dinner
The beauty of a perfectly cooked chicken breast lies not only in its tender juiciness but also in the aromatic dance of herbs that surround it. Each bite of this herb roasted chicken breast takes you to a sun-drenched spring afternoon, where flavors bloom alongside the fresh greens on your plate. With a simple list of ingredients, this dish showcases how a few herbs can transform ordinary chicken into an extraordinary centerpiece for dinner.
Table of Contents
I can vividly remember the first time I discovered this delightful recipe. It was during a family gathering in the warmth of spring, where everyone was so busy chatting and laughing that I had to make something quick yet impressive. This herb roasted chicken breast whipped up effortlessly and left my loved ones raving about the flavors… and the leftovers? They vanished just as quickly! If you’re looking for an easy spring dinner, let this recipe become your go-to for creating memorable meals with minimal fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish fits perfectly into your busy spring evenings.
- Irresistible Flavor: The blend of garlic, basil, thyme, and oregano infuses the chicken with a mouthwatering aroma and subtle earthy taste.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: The golden-brown color and fresh herbs make for an enticing presentation on any table.
- Flexible Serving: Perfect for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests at your spring gathering.
- Diet-Friendly Options: Naturally gluten-free and low-carb, making it suitable for various diets.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of this dish. Choose chicken breasts that are of even thickness for uniform cooking.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil: This not only helps the spices adhere to the chicken but also enhances the flavor, adding healthy fats.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Provides a mellow garlic flavor without overwhelming the dish.
- ½ teaspoon dried basil: Adds a slightly sweet, herbaceous note that complements the chicken beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme: Introduces a warm and earthy element to the overall flavor profile.
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano: Offers a hint of peppery flavor, bringing balance to the dish.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for enhancing all the flavors and offering a seasoned finish.
How to Make Herb Roasted Chicken Breast | Easy Spring Dinner
Preheat the oven: Before you start prepping, set your oven to 425°F (220°C). This temperature helps achieve the crispy exterior while keeping the chicken juicy inside.
Mix the spice blend: 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. This aromatic mix will coat the chicken and infuse it with flavor as it bakes.
Prepare the chicken: Lightly coat both sides of the two boneless, skinless chicken breasts with 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil. This step not only adds flavor but also ensures the spices stick well to the meat.
Apply the herb seasoning: Generously rub the prepared spice mix onto both sides of the chicken breasts. Make sure to cover them evenly; every bite should be bursting with flavor!
Bake the chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish and slide them into the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, adjusting the cooking time based on the size of your chicken breasts. Look for them to be golden and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
Let it rest: Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, ensuring every bite is juicy and tender. After resting, slice and serve!
Storing & Reheating
To store leftover herb roasted chicken breast, allow it to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the chicken in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. The texture may soften slightly, but reheating gently helps retain its delicious flavor.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Ensure chicken breasts are similar in size for even cooking. If they vary widely, consider pounding them to an even thickness.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness accurately; chicken is perfectly cooked at 165°F (74°C).
- Fresh herbs can be used in place of dried ones. If using fresh, double the amount for the same flavor punch.
- Experiment with additional spices or zest, like lemon zest, for brightness.
- Make double the batch and use leftovers in salads or wraps for quick, easy meals throughout the week.
Creating a dish as delightful as herb roasted chicken breast really opens the door to culinary exploration. By focusing on simple, fresh ingredients, you’ll provide your loved ones with a meal that’s as flavorful as it is nourishing. Don’t hesitate to play around with the herbs or even toss in some veggies for roasting at the same time!
Recipe FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken breasts instead of boneless?
Absolutely! Bone-in chicken breasts will add even more flavor and moisture to the dish. Just remember to increase the cooking time, typically by an additional 10-15 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What should I serve with herb roasted chicken breast?
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, roasted veggies, or fluffy rice. Fresh herbs are a great addition to any side – they complement the chicken exceptionally well!
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The best way to ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked is by using an instant-read meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the breast, and look for a reading of 165°F (74°C).
Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
Marinating the chicken can enhance the flavor even further! Combine the oil and spices, then let the chicken soak in the mix in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight before cooking. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before baking.
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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: Main Dishes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Enjoy the irresistible flavor of Herb Roasted Chicken Breast. This simple recipe uses key ingredients like garlic and herbs, making it perfect for quick dinners and healthy meals.
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 the oven to 425F/220C.
- In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, basil, thyme, oregano, salt and pepper.
- Coat the chicken breasts lightly in olive oil and rub the spice mix generously on both sides.
- Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, depending on size.
- Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil and spices for an hour before baking.
Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 37g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
