Description
Classic Oven-Baked Marinated Chicken is a simple high-protein dinner made with tender chicken breasts marinated in olive oil, garlic, lemon, and herbs. Baked in the oven until juicy and golden, this comforting recipe delivers balanced flavor and works perfectly with rice, roasted vegetables, or fresh salads.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup roasted vegetables (broccoli carrots or zucchini)
- Fresh parsley chopped
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
2. In a bowl whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, oregano, thyme, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and honey.
3. Place the chicken in a bowl or resealable bag and pour the marinade over the chicken.
4. Turn the chicken pieces so they are evenly coated with the marinade.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
6. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking dish with parchment paper or light oil.
7. Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it in a single layer in the baking dish.
8. Spoon a small amount of extra marinade over each piece of chicken.
9. Bake the chicken for 20–25 minutes until cooked through.
10. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
11. For a golden top, broil the chicken for the final 2–3 minutes if desired.
12. Remove from the oven and allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
13. Serve with rice or roasted vegetables and garnish with parsley and lemon wedges.
Notes
- Marinating longer helps deepen the flavor and keeps the chicken juicy.
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a richer taste.
- Add smoked paprika or chili flakes for extra spice.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Slice leftover chicken for salads, wraps, or sandwiches.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 95mg