Moist and tender is exactly what these baked chicken breast are! It's beginning to feel a lot like Christmas... That's the song that has been playing on my mind for a while and it really is Christmas tomorrow, it's Christmas Eve! Day 24 of my #VLOGMAS2021 and I'm literally over the moon that I've been able to do more than I imagined starting on 1st December. Chicken breasts have so many ways that you can cook them but today since it's baking month, this recipe is exactly what you needed!
Who is this Recipe For?
This recipe is for anyone who appreciates the simple elegance of a well-prepared chicken breast. Whether you're cooking for your family on a weeknight or hosting a dinner party for friends, this dish is sure to impress. The magic of this recipe lies in its versatility; you can serve it as a stand-alone main course or slice it up for salads, sandwiches, or wraps. Plus, it's a wholesome option for health-conscious individuals, as it's low in fat and packed with protein.
Why it's Great
1. Flavor Explosion
The star of this dish is undoubtedly the garlic. The aromatic, earthy notes of roasted garlic infuse every fiber of the chicken, creating a mouthwatering flavor explosion. It's a garlic lover's dream come true!
2. Juiciness Guaranteed
Dry chicken breast is the bane of every home cook's existence. But fear not! This recipe guarantees succulent, juicy chicken every time. Thanks to a simple yet effective brining technique, you'll never have to endure a dry bite again.
3. Easy Preparation
While it may sound fancy, making Juicy & Tender Garlic Baked Chicken Breast is surprisingly straightforward. With just a few essential kitchen tools and some readily available ingredients, you'll have a restaurant-quality dish on your dinner table in no time.
4. Health Benefits
Chicken breast is a lean source of protein that fits into a balanced diet. It's low in calories and saturated fat, making it an excellent choice for those watching their waistlines. Plus, garlic is not only delicious but also known for its potential health benefits, including immune system support.
INGREDIENTS
4 Chicken Breasts
1 Tablespoon Brown Sugar
1/2 Teaspoon Paprika
1/2 Teaspoon Dried Rosemary
1 Teaspoon Salt
1/2 Teaspoon Garlic Powder
1/2 Teaspoon Onion Powder
1 Teaspoon Chili powder/Cayenne
1 Tablespoon Vegetable Oil
METHOD
Preheat Oven 425°F/ 220°C
Using rolling pin pound each of the chicken breast so that they each have the same even thickness
Combine sugar, paprika, rosemary, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, chili pepper/ Cayenne in bowl whisk well
Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil, place the chicken breasts, sprinkle generously the spice mixture, pour oil and run the mixture well into the chicken breasts on both sides
Bake the chicken for 16 to 18 minutes until chicken is crispy on the edges and golden brown
Allow to rest before serving with your favorite accompaniment
Recipe Tips and Variations
- Garlic Lovers' Delight: If you're a true garlic aficionado, feel free to add more minced garlic to the marinade for an even stronger garlic punch.
- Customize with Herbs: Experiment with different herbs in the marinade to suit your taste. Thyme and rosemary are classics, but you can also try oregano, basil, or parsley.
- Spice It Up: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a subtle kick.
- Food Pairings: This chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides such as garlic mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh garden salad. For drinks, consider a crisp white wine or a citrusy iced tea.
Here’s a complete profile for Garlic Baked Chicken Breast, including FAQs, a nutrition card, and dietary notes:
Garlic Baked Chicken Breast – FAQs
1. What is garlic baked chicken breast?
It’s a simple, lean protein dish where chicken breasts are seasoned with garlic and herbs, then oven-baked until juicy and tender.
2. How do I keep chicken breast from drying out?
Bake at a moderate temperature (around 375–400°F / 190–200°C), don’t overcook, and let the chicken rest after baking. Using a marinade or coating helps retain moisture.
3. Can I add other flavors?
Yes! Lemon juice, herbs (like thyme, rosemary, parsley), paprika, chili flakes, or butter/olive oil can enhance the flavor.
4. Can I meal prep this recipe?
Absolutely. Garlic baked chicken stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days and can be frozen. Great for salads, wraps, or rice bowls.
5. Is this recipe good for weight loss or fitness goals?
Yes. It’s high in protein, low in carbs, and easy to portion. Great for low-calorie, keto, or high-protein diets.
Nutrition Card – Approx. per 1 medium fillet (150g cooked)
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value (DV) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | 240 kcal | — | Depends on oil used |
| Protein | 35 g | 70% | Lean, complete protein |
| Carbohydrates | 1 g | <1% | From garlic and herbs |
| Sugars | 0 g | — | No added sugar |
| Fat | 10 g | 15% | From oil or butter used |
| Sodium | 300 mg | 13% | Varies based on seasoning |
| Cholesterol | 85 mg | 28% | Natural from chicken |
Dietary Compatibility & Notes
| Diet Type | Compatible? | Suggestions |
|---|---|---|
| Gluten-Free | ✅ Yes | Ensure spices and oil are gluten-free |
| Dairy-Free | ✅ Yes | Use oil instead of butter |
| Keto/Low-Carb | ✅ Yes | Very low in carbohydrates |
| Paleo | ✅ Yes | Use olive oil or avocado oil |
| Whole30 | ✅ Yes | Avoid butter; use ghee or compliant oil |
| Vegetarian/Vegan | ❌ No | Contains chicken |
Cooking Tip:
Pound the chicken to an even thickness before baking to ensure it cooks uniformly and stays juicy.
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