Garlic Herb Chicken

Nothing beats the comfort of a home-cooked meal, especially when it’s as delicious and simple as this garlic herb chicken recipe. Trust me, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time with this crowd-pleaser. The succulent chicken, infused with rich garlic and fragrant herbs, is not only satisfying but also makes for an easy weeknight dinner that everyone will love.

Garlic herb chicken is a classic recipe that never goes out of style. It’s the perfect dish to whip up during a hectic week, and it highlights one of nature’s most flavorful ingredients, garlic. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite herbs, making it versatile for any palate. Whether you’re serving it with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad, this meal is sure to bring warmth to your dinner table.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs); you can swap with thighs for more flavor
• 4 cloves garlic, minced; try roasted garlic for a milder flavor
• 1/4 cup olive oil; can substitute with melted butter for richness
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped; or use dried if you don’t have fresh
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped; parsley works well too
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Juice of 1 lemon; adds a refreshing zing

Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure a perfectly cooked chicken with a nice, crispy exterior.

Step 2:

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

Step 3:

Add the chicken breasts to the bowl, massaging the marinade into the meat. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to an hour if you have time. This allows for maximum flavor absorption.

Step 4:

Place the marinated chicken in a baking dish. Pour any remaining marinade over the top to ensure juicy goodness.

Step 5:

Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Your kitchen will smell incredible.

Step 6:

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices, making each bite tender and moist.

Nutritional Information

This garlic herb chicken recipe serves about 6. Each serving contains approximately:
– Calories: 275
– Protein: 30g
– Fat: 15g
– Carbohydrates: 2g
– Fiber: 0g

It’s a healthy option packed with protein and flavor without the heavy carbs.

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking to lighten things up even further, consider using skinless chicken breast and olive oil sparingly. You can also serve this dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a nutritious and wholesome meal.

Serving Suggestions

Garlic herb chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Try serving it with roasted veggies, creamy mashed potatoes, or fluffy rice. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, a crisp green salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette makes the perfect complement. For a twist, you might enjoy these air fryer honey butter garlic chicken tenders for a fun finger food version.

Common Mistakes

One common mistake is not allowing the chicken to marinate long enough. Marination enhances the flavor, so if time permits, let it soak up that garlicky goodness. Also, be careful not to overcook your chicken; always check the internal temperature for perfect juiciness.

Chef’s Notes

• For added flavor, consider using fresh herbs from your garden; they make a world of difference.
• This dish can easily be doubled, making it perfect for a meal prep or family gathering. Leftovers can be enjoyed cold in a salad or reheated.
• Feel free to switch up the garlic with shallots for a sweeter taste or add some spicy red pepper flakes for a kick.

FAQs

• Q1: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
  A1: Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely before marinating and cooking.
• Q2: What can I do with leftovers?
  A2: Leftover garlic herb chicken is fantastic in wraps, salads, or even stir-fries.
• Q3: How can I ensure my chicken comes out juicy?
  A3: Don’t skip the resting step after baking; this keeps the juices locked in.

If you’re looking for more chicken dinners that are quick and delicious, you might also love my garlic lemon butter chicken recipe. With a few simple ingredients, you’ll have another winner to add to your weeknight repertoire.

Incorporating this garlic herb chicken into your meals means delicious dinners with minimal stress. Enjoy the lovely aromas filling your kitchen, and savor each forkful of this delightful dish. Happy cooking, friends!

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