Herb Roasted Chicken Breast: Juicy & Tender

Are you tired of dry, lackluster chicken breasts? Do you dream of a perfectly cooked, juicy, and flavorful chicken that’s easy to make? I’ve been there! But after much experimentation, I’ve cracked the code to achieving an Herb Roasted Chicken Breast that’s consistently tender and delicious. This recipe is so simple, it’s almost unbelievable. Get ready to say goodbye to dry chicken forever!

Why You’ll Love This Herb Roasted Chicken Breast

This recipe is a game-changer for several reasons:

• It’s incredibly easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have perfectly cooked chicken on the table in under 30 minutes.
• It’s consistently juicy and tender: The secret is in the simple technique of pounding the chicken to an even thickness.
• It’s packed with flavor: The combination of Italian herbs, garlic powder, and fresh rosemary creates a symphony of deliciousness.
• It’s versatile: Enjoy it as a main course, in salads, sandwiches, or meal prep containers.
• It’s healthy: A lean protein option that’s perfect for a balanced diet.

Gathering Your Ingredients for Herb Roasted Chicken Breast

Let’s talk about the ingredients that come together to make this Herb Roasted Chicken Breast so special. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, but the quality of the ingredients definitely shines through. We’re aiming for a delightful combination of savory, aromatic, and subtly herbaceous flavors that perfectly complement the chicken.

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: The star of the show! Choose high-quality chicken breasts that are plump and pink. Two breasts will serve approximately two people, adjust quantity as required.
• Olive Oil: We’re using olive oil as a base for our herb mixture. It not only helps the herbs adhere to the chicken but also adds a subtle richness and helps to keep the chicken moist during cooking. Opt for extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
• Dried Italian Herbs: This is where the Italian flair comes in! A good quality Italian herb blend typically includes oregano, basil, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram. Feel free to adjust the amount to your preference, or even create your own blend.
• Garlic Powder: Garlic powder adds a wonderful savory depth to the chicken. Don’t skimp on it!
• Salt and Black Pepper: These are essential for seasoning and enhancing the other flavors. Freshly ground black pepper is always a plus.
• Fresh Rosemary: A sprig of fresh rosemary placed on top of the chicken while baking infuses it with a beautiful, fragrant aroma and flavor. If you don’t have fresh rosemary, you can substitute with dried, but the fresh herb really elevates the dish.

Crafting Your Herb Roasted Chicken Breast: Step-by-Step

Now, let’s get cooking! Don’t be intimidated – this Herb Roasted Chicken Breast recipe is incredibly straightforward. The most important thing to remember is to not overcook the chicken. We want it juicy and tender, not dry and rubbery. Follow these steps, and you’ll have perfect chicken every single time.

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and quickly.
2. Pound the Chicken: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or in a resealable bag. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This is the secret to perfectly cooked chicken! Pounding ensures that the chicken cooks evenly, preventing the edges from drying out before the center is cooked through.
3. Prepare the Herb Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, Italian herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This creates a flavorful marinade that will infuse the chicken with deliciousness. Make sure everything is well combined.
4. Coat the Chicken: Place the pounded chicken breasts in a baking dish. Brush the herb mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken, ensuring that every inch is covered. This will create a beautiful crust and keep the chicken moist.
5. Add Rosemary: Place a sprig of fresh rosemary on top of each chicken breast. This adds a wonderful aroma and subtle flavor to the chicken as it bakes.
6. Bake to Perfection: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for accuracy! This is the only way to ensure that the chicken is cooked through but not overcooked. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the breast, avoiding any bones.
7. Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken breast. Tent it loosely with foil to keep it warm.

Tips for Perfect Herb Roasted Chicken Breast Every Time

Want to guarantee your Herb Roasted Chicken Breast is a success? Here are a few extra tips to keep in mind:

• Don’t Overcook: This is the most important tip! Overcooked chicken is dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken is cooked to 165°F (74°C) and no higher.
• Pound Evenly: Unevenly pounded chicken will cook unevenly, resulting in some parts being dry while others are perfectly cooked. Take your time and ensure that the chicken is an even thickness throughout.
• Use Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs work in a pinch, fresh herbs add a brighter, more vibrant flavor. If you have access to fresh herbs, use them!
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste the herb mixture before brushing it on the chicken and adjust the seasonings to your liking. If you prefer more garlic, add more garlic powder. If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Browning Boost: For a deeper golden brown color, you can broil the chicken for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking. Watch it carefully to prevent burning!
• Storage: Cooked chicken breast can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure it’s properly sealed in an airtight container.

What to Serve With Herb Roasted Chicken Breast

This Herb Roasted Chicken Breast is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with:

• A simple salad with a vinaigrette dressing.
• Roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, or sweet potatoes.
• Rice pilaf, like our favorite Golden Rice Pilaf, for a complete and satisfying meal.
• Mashed potatoes or creamy polenta.
• Steamed green beans or asparagus.

You could also create a delicious and healthy power bowl using this chicken! Check out our recipe for a Roasted Sweet Potato Chicken Power Bowl for inspiration.

Your Herb Roasted Chicken Breast Questions Answered (FAQ)

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can! Chicken thighs will require a slightly longer cooking time, so be sure to use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 175°F (79°C).

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the herb mixture ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also pound the chicken breasts ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook. It is not advisable to marinate the chicken for long periods of time as the salt can affect the texture.

Can I freeze cooked chicken breasts?

Yes! Allow the chicken breasts to cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

What if I don’t have fresh rosemary?

You can substitute dried rosemary, but use a smaller amount (about 1/2 teaspoon) as dried herbs are more potent than fresh herbs. You can also use other fresh herbs, such as thyme or oregano.

Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?

Absolutely! Preheat your grill to medium heat and grill the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Enjoy Your Homemade Herb Roasted Chicken Breast!

There you have it – a simple and foolproof recipe for Herb Roasted Chicken Breast that’s guaranteed to be juicy and tender every single time. I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do. It’s a weeknight staple in my house, and I know it will be in yours too! Give it a try and let me know in the comments how it turns out. Don’t forget to rate the recipe, and share it with your friends and family. Happy cooking!