Juicy & Tender Garlic Baked Chicken Breast - VLOGMAS DAY 24

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.

FAQs

1. Can I use bone-in chicken breasts for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Bone-in chicken breasts may take a bit longer to cook than boneless ones.

2. How do I store leftovers?

If you have any leftovers (which is rare with this dish!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze cooked chicken breast for up to 2-3 months.

3. Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken in the garlic herb mixture and refrigerate it for a few hours or overnight before baking. This allows the flavors to meld even more, resulting in an even tastier dish.