Garlic Boneless Baked Chicken Breast Recipe

There’s nothing quite as satisfying as a juicy, tender, and flavorful chicken breast, especially when infused with the rich and aromatic essence of garlic. Garlic Boneless Baked Chicken Breast is a versatile and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or impressing guests at a dinner party. This recipe uses simple pantry ingredients to elevate plain chicken breasts into a mouthwatering meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Juicy and Flavorful: No more dry chicken! This recipe ensures tender, juicy results every time.
2. Simple Ingredients: You likely already have everything you need in your kitchen.
3. Healthy and Protein-Packed: A nutritious, high-protein option for any diet.
4. Customizable: Adjust seasonings and pairings to suit your taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Preheat Your Oven: Set the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking dish or sheet pan with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
2. Flatten the Chicken: For even cooking, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
3. Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick and ensures crispy edges.

Step 2: Create the Garlic Mixture

1. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
2. Mix well to form a garlic-infused oil.

Step 3: Apply the Seasoning

1. Using a pastry brush or your hands, generously coat both sides of the chicken breasts with the garlic mixture.
2. Arrange the chicken in a single layer on the prepared baking dish or sheet pan.

Step 4: Optional Marinade

1. If time allows, marinate the chicken in a mixture of lemon juice, soy sauce, and honey for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
2. Drain excess marinade before applying the garlic mixture.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken

1. Place the chicken in the preheated oven and bake for 18–25 minutes, depending on the thickness of the breasts.
2. Check for doneness with a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Step 6: Rest and Garnish

1. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for a zesty touch.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Baked Chicken

1. Don’t Skip the Resting Period: Resting ensures juicier chicken.
2. Use a Meat Thermometer: Overcooking leads to dry chicken; aim for 165°F.
3. Experiment with Herbs: Swap Italian seasoning for rosemary, thyme, or dill for a fresh twist.
4. Double the Garlic: If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to increase the garlic quantity.

Serving Suggestions

This Garlic Boneless Baked Chicken Breast pairs well with a variety of sides, making it a versatile main dish.

Classic Pairings

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and comforting.
• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or carrots add color and nutrients.
• Rice or Quinoa: A neutral base to soak up the juices.

Light and Fresh Options

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine with tangy dressing complements the garlic flavors.
• Zucchini Noodles: A low-carb, fresh alternative to pasta.
• Roasted Asparagus: Simple and elegant.

Bread Pairings

• Garlic Bread: Double the garlic for true garlic enthusiasts.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft rolls for soaking up the flavorful juices.

Variations

1. Spicy Garlic Chicken: Add extra cayenne pepper or red chili flakes for heat.
2. Parmesan Crust: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top before baking for a cheesy crust.
3. Lemon Herb Chicken: Add lemon zest to the seasoning mix and serve with extra lemon juice.
4. Honey Garlic Glaze: Brush the chicken with a mixture of honey and garlic halfway through baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and flavorful. Adjust cooking time to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, season the chicken and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q: How can I make this dish dairy-free?
A: This recipe is naturally dairy-free. Just ensure the sides you serve are dairy-free as well.

Q: Can I add vegetables to the baking dish?
A: Definitely! Add chopped vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or zucchini to the pan for a one-pan meal.

Conclusion

Garlic Boneless Baked Chicken Breast is a foolproof recipe that guarantees tender, juicy, and flavorful chicken every time. Perfect for any occasion, it’s easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and can be paired with countless sides. Whether you’re preparing a casual family dinner or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress.

Yield: 4

Garlic Boneless Baked Chicken Breast Recipe

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There’s nothing quite as satisfying as a juicy, tender, and flavorful chicken breast, especially when infused with the rich and aromatic essence of garlic. Garlic Boneless Baked Chicken Breast is a versatile and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or impressing guests at a dinner party. This recipe uses simple pantry ingredients to elevate plain chicken breasts into a mouthwatering meal.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes

Total Time 40 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray.

2. Season the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.

3. Assemble the Dish

1. Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
2. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the top of each piece if desired.

4. Bake the Chicken

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
2. For a golden finish, broil the chicken on high for 1-2 minutes at the end of the cooking time.

5. Rest and Serve

1. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
2. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad.
• Pair with garlic butter rice or pasta for a hearty meal.