If you’re on the hunt for a flavorful, fuss-free dinner, this Easy Oven-Baked Lemon Herb Chicken Breast Recipe is exactly what your weeknight needs. Imagine juicy, tender chicken breasts bathed in a bright, zesty lemon marinade with fresh herbs that fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas. It’s a straightforward recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a delightful meal that feels both fresh and comforting. Whether you’re cooking for your family or prepping for a special guest, this dish brings the perfect balance of tangy, herbal notes and succulent texture that everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and pantry-friendly, yet each plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of tangy zest, herbal freshness, and irresistible juiciness in this Easy Oven-Baked Lemon Herb Chicken Breast Recipe.
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice: The star of the show, it adds bright acidity that tenderizes and flavors the chicken beautifully.
- 3 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a savory depth and mild umami that enhances the complexity of the marinade.
- ¼ cup olive oil: Keeps the chicken moist and helps the herbs adhere for maximum flavor.
- 2 tablespoons fresh oregano (or 2 teaspoons dried): Brings an aromatic, slightly peppery taste that complements the lemon.
- ½ cup fresh parsley (or 4 teaspoons dried): Adds a bright, clean herbal flavor that freshens the dish.
- ¼ cup fresh basil (or 4 teaspoons dried): Offers sweet, slightly floral notes creating a beautiful herb medley.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses savory warmth and richness that balances the citrus.
- ½ teaspoon paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and gentle color to the chicken.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and seasons the chicken perfectly.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild heat and complements the other seasonings.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 8 ounces each): The tender protein base that soaks up all these wonderful flavors.
- Lemon wedges (optional): For a bright finishing touch when serving.
How to Make Easy Oven-Baked Lemon Herb Chicken Breast Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by combining the fresh lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and olive oil in a medium bowl. Add in the minced garlic, oregano, parsley, basil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until the marinade is well blended and fragrant. This marinade is the magic elixir that soaks into the chicken bringing vibrant citrus notes perfectly balanced with herbaceous warmth.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld and the lemon juice tenderize the meat. If you have more time, marinating for 2 hours or even overnight will deepen the flavor incredibly.
Step 3: Preheat and Prepare for Baking
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish with foil or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, letting any excess drip off gently, and arrange them in a single layer in the dish. Don’t discard the marinade yet — you’ll use it to baste the chicken while it cooks.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
Bake the chicken breasts in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, then carefully baste them with the reserved marinade to keep them moist and flavorful. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through. This final baking time locks in juiciness and gives the chicken a beautiful golden finish.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once out of the oven, allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Resting helps the juices redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and succulent. Serve with your favorite sides and a wedge of fresh lemon for an added citrus burst if you like.
How to Serve Easy Oven-Baked Lemon Herb Chicken Breast Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like freshly chopped parsley or basil leaves not only enhance presentation but bring a fresh crunch and herbal brightness that complements the tender chicken perfectly. A thin slice of lemon or a few lemon wedges on the side invite everyone to add extra zesty goodness.
Side Dishes
This Easy Oven-Baked Lemon Herb Chicken Breast Recipe pairs beautifully with light, fresh sides. Think fluffy quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette to echo the flavors of the chicken. For a heartier meal, creamy mashed potatoes or buttery rice pilaf offer delicious balance.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleaser, slice the chicken breast and arrange the pieces over a bed of mixed greens or alongside roasted root vegetables. You could even serve slices in a warm wrap with crisp lettuce and homemade tzatziki for a fresh Mediterranean vibe. The versatility of this recipe makes it perfect for casual dinners or elegant entertaining.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it chilled promptly to maintain its juicy texture and vibrant flavors. This makes it perfect for quick lunches or a protein-packed snack.
Freezing
If you want to keep chicken longer, wrap each breast tightly in foil or plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen chicken breasts may keep their quality for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating
For the best texture and to avoid drying out the chicken, reheat gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts covered with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
FAQs
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?
Absolutely! This Easy Oven-Baked Lemon Herb Chicken Breast Recipe works well with dried oregano, parsley, and basil. Just remember to use about a third of the amount compared to fresh herbs since dried herbs have a more concentrated flavor.
What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?
You can substitute Worcestershire sauce with soy sauce or balsamic vinegar in a pinch. They’ll bring a bit of savory depth, though the flavor profile will shift slightly.
How do I tell when the chicken is done?
The safest way is to use a meat thermometer — the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). The chicken should no longer be pink inside, and juices should run clear when cut.
Can I marinate the chicken for longer than overnight?
It’s best not to exceed 24 hours as the acidity in the lemon juice can start to break down the meat too much, resulting in a mushy texture.
Is this recipe good for other cuts of chicken?
Yes! You can use this marinade for chicken thighs or drumsticks, but the cooking time will need adjustment depending on the cut and size.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Oven-Baked Lemon Herb Chicken Breast Recipe is a total game-changer when you want a simple yet impressive meal. The bright, fresh flavors come together with minimal effort, delivering juicy chicken that’s packed with herb-infused deliciousness every single time. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your new go-to recipe for easy, flavorful dinners!
Print
Easy Oven-Baked Lemon Herb Chicken Breast Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This flavorful and healthy oven-baked chicken breast recipe combines fresh herbs, lemon juice, and a touch of paprika to create a juicy and aromatic main dish perfect for any meal. The marinade not only tenderizes the chicken but infuses it with vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired flavors. Simple to prepare and bake, this recipe yields tender chicken breasts that are perfect served with sides like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
Ingredients
Marinade Ingredients
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice
- 3 Tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh oregano (minced) or 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- ½ cup fresh parsley (minced and lightly packed) or 4 teaspoons dried parsley
- ¼ cup fresh basil (minced and lightly packed) or 4 teaspoons dried basil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Chicken
- 4 (8-ounce) boneless, skinless chicken breasts (thawed if frozen)
- Lemon wedges (for serving, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, olive oil, minced oregano, parsley, basil, garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined to create a vibrant and flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to penetrate and tenderize the meat.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the chicken breasts. This temperature ensures they cook evenly and develop a slight golden color.
- Bake the Chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Discard the remaining marinade. Bake the chicken breasts in the preheated oven for 22 to 25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Serve warm with optional lemon wedges for an added burst of fresh citrus flavor.
Notes
- For best results, marinate chicken for at least 1 hour but no longer than 24 hours to avoid over-tenderizing.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Adjust herbs to taste depending on availability and preference.
- Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This recipe can be doubled or halved easily to suit your needs.
