Healthy Baked Chicken Breast With Garlic

Name: Healthy Baked Chicken Breast With Garlic
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Clean Healthy Food Collection

I love whipping up this Healthy Baked Chicken Breast With Garlic on busy weeknights. It's not only a healthy choice but also bursting with flavor, thanks to the roasted garlic that infuses the chicken with its rich aroma. The simplicity of the recipe means I can have tender, juicy chicken on the table in no time, paired with some steamed veggies or a fresh salad. It's a staple in my home, and I can enjoy it guilt-free knowing I'm nourishing my body while satisfying my taste buds.

Created by

Prudence Whitby

Last updated on 2026-02-23T18:52:42.705Z

When I first experimented with baking chicken, I knew finding the right balance of flavor and healthiness would be crucial. My go-to method quickly became roasting with garlic and herbs, which helps keep the chicken juicy while imparting that incredible flavor. I generally marinate it briefly before baking, which intensifies the taste.

One of my secrets is to use an instant-read thermometer; I pull the dish from the oven as soon as the internal temperature hits 165°F. This method ensures the chicken is perfectly cooked every time—no dryness here!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Succulent chicken that is packed with flavor
A quick and healthy weeknight dinner option
The roasted garlic adds a delightful aroma and taste

The Role of Marinade in Tenderizing Chicken

Marinating is key to achieving both flavor and tenderness in chicken breasts. In this recipe, the acidity from the lemon juice works to break down the protein fibers in the chicken, making it more succulent. I recommend letting the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes, but if you have the time, extending this to an hour allows the flavors to penetrate even deeper, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish. Additionally, be sure to use a resealable bag or a shallow dish to keep the chicken well-coated in the marinade.

Using high-quality olive oil not only adds flavor but also helps to retain moisture during the baking process. If you prefer, feel free to substitute with avocado oil for a higher smoke point, which can keep the flavors intact while roasting. Avoid using less flavorful oils like canola, as they won’t add any depth to your dish. Whichever oil you choose, ensure it's mixed thoroughly to evenly distribute the garlic and herbs onto the chicken.

Perfecting the Baking Time

Achieving the perfect baking time is essential for juicy chicken. Overcooking can lead to dry meat, while undercooking poses food safety issues. For this recipe, aim for a baking time of 25 minutes at 400°F (200°C), but always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The chicken should feel firm to the touch and juices should run clear. If you don’t have a thermometer, cutting into the thickest part of the chicken can also help check for doneness—if it’s still pink, give it a few more minutes in the oven.

Consider rotating the baking dish halfway through cooking. This ensures even heat distribution and can help avoid any hot spots in your oven, which may cause one side of the chicken to cook faster than the other. Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing; this allows the juices to redistribute, keeping each piece moist and flavorful.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make a flavorful chicken dish:

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Juice of 1 lemon

Once you have these ingredients ready, you're set to create a delicious meal!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for perfectly baked chicken:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, thyme, rosemary, and lemon juice. Mix well to create a marinade.

Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Allow it to marinate for at least 15 minutes, or longer for more flavor.

Bake the Chicken

Transfer the marinated chicken breasts to a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Serve

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite sides!

This easy process ensures you have a wonderfully baked chicken ready in no time!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider topping the chicken with fresh herbs right before serving. A sprinkle of parsley or basil brightens the dish beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

This Healthy Baked Chicken Breast With Garlic pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. I often serve it with steamed broccoli or asparagus for a light, nutritious meal. The fresh taste of the vegetables complements the rich flavors of the chicken perfectly. Alternatively, a simple green salad with a vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast to the dish.

For a heartier option, consider serving the chicken over a bed of quinoa or brown rice. Both grains absorb the juicy flavors of the chicken and garlic, making them an excellent vessel for the remaining sauce. You can also make a quick lemon-garlic sauce to drizzle over the top using the drippings from the baking dish.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to develop even further. Just make sure to bring the chicken to room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking—it helps ensure even cooking throughout. You can also batch cook the chicken and freeze individual portions, which helps maintain the quality when reheated later.

To store leftover baked chicken, allow it to cool completely, then place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or can be frozen for about 2 months. When reheating, cover it with foil to retain moisture and warm it gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Quick reheating in the microwave works too but can dry it out, so a splash of water can help keep it moist.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use skin-on chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use skin-on chicken, but you'll want to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure it cooks through without burning the skin.

→ How should I store leftover chicken?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

→ Can I freeze the marinade?

Absolutely! You can freeze the marinade in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Just add fresh chicken when you're ready to cook.

→ What sides pair well with this chicken?

This chicken goes perfectly with steamed vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh green salad. Choose what suits your taste!