Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Step 1. Prep the Chicken
- Trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts.
- For even cooking, pound the thicker parts to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
Step 2. Make the Marinade
- In a large bowl, whisk together:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 minced garlic cloves
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tsp mixed herbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Stir until well combined.
Step 3. Marinate the Chicken
- Add chicken breasts to the bowl and coat well in the marinade.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
Step 4. Preheat Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly grease a baking dish or oven-safe skillet.
Step 5. Bake the Chicken
- Arrange marinated chicken breasts in a single layer in the baking dish.
- Pour any remaining marinade over the top.
- Bake uncovered for 22–26 minutes, depending on thickness, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 6. Broil for Extra Flavor (optional)
- Broil for the last 2–3 minutes for a lightly browned, golden top. Watch closely to prevent burning.
Step 7. Rest and Serve
- Remove from oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Serve hot with your favorite sides, sauces, or sliced over salad or pasta.
Notes
🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken in airtight bags for up to 2 months. Reheating
Oven: Warm in a 325°F oven for 10–12 minutes covered with foil. Microwave: Reheat on medium power in 30-second intervals. Skillet: Heat gently with a splash of water or broth to keep moist. 🥄 Variations
Creamy Garlic Chicken: Add a splash of cream and parmesan for a richer finish. Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or a dash of cayenne to the marinade. Mediterranean Style: Include chopped olives and sun-dried tomatoes. Grilled Version: Marinate and grill the chicken over medium heat, 6–8 minutes per side. Herb Swaps: Try Italian seasoning, herbes de Provence, or fresh chopped herbs like parsley or basil. ❓ 10 FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Yes! Boneless thighs are juicy and work beautifully. Adjust cook time to 25–30 minutes. 2. What herbs work best?
Thyme, oregano, rosemary, parsley, and basil are all great. Use what you have! 3. Can I prep this in advance?
Absolutely. Marinate the chicken the night before for next-day cooking. 4. How do I know when it’s done?
Use a meat thermometer—165°F (74°C) is the safe internal temp for chicken. 5. Can I pan-fry this recipe instead?
Yes! Sear on medium-high heat 5–7 minutes per side until fully cooked. 6. Is this recipe low carb or keto?
Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs and keto-friendly. 7. What should I serve it with?
Try roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, couscous, or a crisp salad. 8. Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh is best for flavor, but bottled can work in a pinch. 9. Can I double this recipe?
Easily—just double the marinade and use a larger baking dish. 10. What can I do with leftovers?
Slice for wraps, sandwiches, salads, or pasta dishes. 🏁 Conclusion
This Melt In Your Mouth Chicken Breast recipe is one of those tried-and-true favorites you’ll keep on repeat. It’s effortless, incredibly flavorful, and always moist and juicy thanks to the simple lemon-garlic-herb marinade. Whether served as a main course or prepped for meals throughout the week, this chicken will become a go-to in your kitchen. It’s proof that you don’t need complicated techniques or ingredients to make something extraordinary.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken in airtight bags for up to 2 months. Reheating
Oven: Warm in a 325°F oven for 10–12 minutes covered with foil. Microwave: Reheat on medium power in 30-second intervals. Skillet: Heat gently with a splash of water or broth to keep moist. 🥄 Variations
Creamy Garlic Chicken: Add a splash of cream and parmesan for a richer finish. Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or a dash of cayenne to the marinade. Mediterranean Style: Include chopped olives and sun-dried tomatoes. Grilled Version: Marinate and grill the chicken over medium heat, 6–8 minutes per side. Herb Swaps: Try Italian seasoning, herbes de Provence, or fresh chopped herbs like parsley or basil. ❓ 10 FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Yes! Boneless thighs are juicy and work beautifully. Adjust cook time to 25–30 minutes. 2. What herbs work best?
Thyme, oregano, rosemary, parsley, and basil are all great. Use what you have! 3. Can I prep this in advance?
Absolutely. Marinate the chicken the night before for next-day cooking. 4. How do I know when it’s done?
Use a meat thermometer—165°F (74°C) is the safe internal temp for chicken. 5. Can I pan-fry this recipe instead?
Yes! Sear on medium-high heat 5–7 minutes per side until fully cooked. 6. Is this recipe low carb or keto?
Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs and keto-friendly. 7. What should I serve it with?
Try roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, couscous, or a crisp salad. 8. Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh is best for flavor, but bottled can work in a pinch. 9. Can I double this recipe?
Easily—just double the marinade and use a larger baking dish. 10. What can I do with leftovers?
Slice for wraps, sandwiches, salads, or pasta dishes. 🏁 Conclusion
This Melt In Your Mouth Chicken Breast recipe is one of those tried-and-true favorites you’ll keep on repeat. It’s effortless, incredibly flavorful, and always moist and juicy thanks to the simple lemon-garlic-herb marinade. Whether served as a main course or prepped for meals throughout the week, this chicken will become a go-to in your kitchen. It’s proof that you don’t need complicated techniques or ingredients to make something extraordinary.