healthy baked chicken recipe

The Best healthy baked chicken recipe

I’ve been making this healthy baked chicken recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. It’s a simple and delicious dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few ingredients and some basic kitchen tools. I love how the chicken comes out moist and flavorful, with a crispy exterior that’s just irresistible.

My kids devour it in seconds, and I appreciate how healthy it is too – no added preservatives or unhealthy fats. I first discovered this recipe when I was looking for a healthier alternative to fried chicken, and I’ve been hooked ever since.

It’s become a staple in our household, and I’m excited to share it with you today. I like to serve it with some roasted veggies or a side salad for a well-rounded meal that everyone will enjoy.

The key to this recipe is using high-quality ingredients and not overcooking the chicken – it should be nice and juicy when you take it out of the oven. With these simple tips, you’ll be making this recipe like a pro in no time.

Healthy Baked Lemon Herb Chicken

4.5 from 703 votes

This healthy baked chicken recipe features a zesty lemon herb marinade. It’s a perfect meal for a busy weeknight and can be served with a side of steamed vegetables or quinoa.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time35 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time55 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Marinade

Juice of 1 lemon
Zest of 1 lemon
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried thyme
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2In a mixing bowl, combine lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
3Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
4Place chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the marinade over them.
5Ensure each chicken breast is well coated.
6Let it marinate for 15 minutes at room temperature.
7Place the baking dish with the marinated chicken in the preheated oven.
8Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
9The chicken should be golden brown and juices should run clear when poked with a fork.
10Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
11This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
12Slice the chicken against the grain and serve with your choice of side dishes.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking dish
Basting brush
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 2.5g❤️Cholesterol: 125mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 5g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 1g🥩Protein: 54g

📝Notes

Tips: For added flavor, you can stuff the chicken breasts with lemon slices and fresh herbs before baking. You can also use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier option.

This healthy baked chicken recipe is perfect for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or want to impress your guests at a special gathering.

It’s easy to make ahead of time and can be stored in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for up to two months.

Simply thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating in the oven or microwave until hot and crispy again.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Healthy Baked Lemon Herb Chicken

Q1: What makes this baked chicken recipe so healthy?

This recipe is a great choice for those looking for a healthier alternative to fried chicken. The use of olive oil instead of butter or other saturated fats makes it much leaner, while the herbs and spices add plenty of flavor without any extra calories.

Q2: Can I use different types of chicken in this recipe?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly – breasts will cook faster than thighs.

Q3: How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Make sure to pat the chicken dry with paper towels before baking, and don’t overcook it! You want it to come out juicy and tender.

Q4: Can I make this recipe in advance?

You can prepare the marinade and let the chicken sit for up to 24 hours before baking. Just keep an eye on it while it’s baking to ensure it doesn’t overcook.

Q5: Is this recipe suitable for people with gluten intolerance?

The ingredients used in this recipe are all naturally gluten-free, so you can enjoy this dish even if you have gluten intolerance.

Similar Posts