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Oven Baked Lemon Chicken Breast Garlic Herb

Joy Brooks
A scientifically optimized recipe combining bright lemon, aromatic garlic, and fresh herbs with precise temperature control for perfectly juicy chicken breast every time.
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Oven-Baked
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 287 kcal
Prep Time : 15 minutes
Cook Time : 30 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 6-8 oz each
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 medium lemons 1 for juice and zest, 1 for slices
  • 6 garlic cloves finely minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • 2 tablespoons high-quality butter

Method
 

  1. Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. If thickness varies significantly, gently pound to create uniform thickness of approximately 3/4 inch.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, juice of one lemon (approximately 3 tablespoons), zest of one lemon (approximately 1 tablespoon), minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme leaves, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Whisk thoroughly.
  3. Place chicken in a shallow dish or resealable bag. Pour marinade over chicken, ensuring all surfaces are coated. Create several small shallow slits in the thickest parts of the breast. Marinate for 30 minutes at room temperature or up to 4 hours refrigerated.
  4. Position a rack in the middle of the oven and preheat to 425°F (218°C).
  5. Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
  6. Remove chicken from marinade, allowing excess to drip off but preserving any garlic and herb pieces attached to the surface. Place chicken presentation-side down in the hot skillet. Sear for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
  7. Flip chicken, reduce heat to medium, and add butter to the pan. Cut the remaining lemon into 1/4-inch slices and arrange around the chicken. Cook for 2 additional minutes, occasionally spooning the melted butter over the chicken.
  8. Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 5 minutes. Reduce oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking for 10-15 minutes until internal temperature reaches 163°F (73°C).
  9. Remove from oven (internal temperature will rise to 165°F/74°C during resting). Transfer chicken to a cutting board and let rest for 5-7 minutes. Slice against the grain and serve with pan juices drizzled over top.

Note

  • For best flavor penetration, marinate for at least 30 minutes but no more than 4 hours (the acid in lemon juice can alter texture if marinated too long)
  • Always use a calibrated meat thermometer for perfect doneness
  • The two-temperature baking approach ensures a golden exterior while maintaining interior moisture
  • Allow chicken to rest at room temperature 30 minutes before cooking if refrigerated
  • Save any leftover pan juices to drizzle over rice or vegetables