Healthy Baked Chicken Breast With Garlic

Name: Healthy Baked Chicken Breast With Garlic
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Balanced Healthy Meals Collection

I love whipping up Healthy Baked Chicken Breast With Garlic for dinner because it's not only nutritious but also incredibly flavorful. The combination of garlic and herbs infuses the chicken with a delicious taste that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, it's a breeze to make and requires minimal prep time. Whether you're meal prepping for the week or entertaining guests, this dish never disappoints. I often serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad, making it a well-rounded meal that I can feel good about.

Created by

Nola Patterson

Last updated on 2026-02-24T01:57:37.167Z

When I first tried making Healthy Baked Chicken Breast with Garlic, I was amazed at how simple it was to create a dish that packed so much flavor. The secret lies in marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes, allowing the garlic and herbs to penetrate the meat. This method not only enhances the taste but keeps the chicken incredibly juicy.

Through a bit of experimentation in the kitchen, I've discovered that roasting the chicken at a high temperature ensures a beautifully golden exterior while keeping the inside tender. Don't forget to let the chicken rest after baking; this small step makes a huge difference in juiciness!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Garlic adds a rich flavor that makes the chicken irresistible.
Healthy and low-calorie, perfect for any diet.
Quick and easy to prepare, great for weeknight dinners.

Choosing the Right Chicken

When selecting chicken breasts for this recipe, opt for ones that are fresh and free from any added preservatives. Look for chicken that is plump and firm, which usually indicates freshness. If you can, choose organic or free-range chicken for a more robust flavor and better texture. If you're in a pinch, frozen chicken breasts can be used, but be sure to fully thaw them before marinating to ensure even flavor absorption.

The thickness of the chicken breasts can also affect cooking time. For uniform cooking, consider pounding the breasts to an even thickness of about 1 inch. This helps them cook evenly and prevents the ends from drying out while the center reaches the desired temperature. If you can't pound them, just keep an eye on the cooking time and check for doneness.

Perfecting the Marinade

Garlic is the star ingredient in this marinade, offering both incredible flavor and health benefits. When mincing garlic, aim for a fine chop to release its essential oils and juices, maximizing the flavor infusion into the chicken. You can adjust the amount according to your taste; for a more subtle garlic flavor, reduce to 2 cloves. Alternatively, for a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture.

Letting the chicken marinate for a minimum of 30 minutes allows it to soak up the flavors, but for the best results, consider marinating it for 2-4 hours, or even overnight. This extended time enhances the flavor and tenderness, making the chicken juicy and succulent. Just remember to refrigerate it during longer marination periods to ensure food safety.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients:

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

These ingredients come together to create a deliciously healthy dish.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your chicken:

Prepare the Marinade

In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic, olive oil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.

Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a large bowl or plastic bag, pour the marinade over them, and coat thoroughly. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Bake the Chicken

Arrange the marinated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Serve

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Enjoy your healthy baked chicken breast with a side of your favorite vegetables!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding lemon juice or zest to the marinade. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Serving Suggestions

I love pairing this garlic baked chicken with roasted vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini. The sweetness of the roasted veggies complements the savory chicken perfectly. For a refreshing side, consider a light arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette, which balances the richness of the dish.

If you have leftovers, this chicken is versatile enough to be used in other meals. Shred it for use in tacos, salads, or pasta dishes, allowing you to extend its deliciousness throughout the week.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover baked chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you wish to keep it longer, consider freezing it for up to three months. Make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently in the oven wrapped in foil to retain moisture.

If you're in a hurry, you can microwave the chicken, but be careful not to overcook it. Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds, checking often to ensure it doesn't become tough. Adding a splash of broth can help maintain its juiciness during reheating.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time accordingly, as bone-in chicken takes longer to cook through.

→ What side dishes pair well with this chicken?

Roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad all complement the chicken beautifully.

→ Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

Absolutely! Marinating overnight can enhance the flavor even more.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the ingredients used are gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.