If you’re hunting for a weeknight dinner that checks all the boxes—fast, hands-off, bursting with flavor, and beautifully golden—this Garlic Boneless Baked Chicken Breast is about to become your new go-to. With juicy chicken infused with aromatic garlic and herbs, each bite feels both comfortingly familiar and special enough to serve guests. There’s no breading or frying needed here; just simple ingredients doing their magic in the oven, creating a main dish that’s succulent, fragrant, and versatile enough for any side you love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses straightforward, everyday ingredients that each play a crucial role in the finished Garlic Boneless Baked Chicken Breast. They combine to create juicy, flavorful chicken with an irresistibly savory aroma and inviting color.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein—choose evenly sized pieces for consistent cooking and the juiciest result.
- Olive oil: Adds richness, keeps the meat moist, and helps that gorgeous golden color develop in the oven.
- Fresh garlic (minced): Delivers a punch of savory flavor that infuses the chicken as it bakes.
- Salt: Brings out the natural flavors in both the chicken and the spices.
- Black pepper: For a gentle heat and balance.
- Paprika: Adds a warm, subtle smokiness and beautiful color.
- Onion powder: Introduces depth and mild sweetness without any chopping required.
- Dried Italian herbs: The classic blend (oregano, basil, thyme) elevates the aroma and taste—use what you have.
- Fresh parsley (chopped, optional): A finishing touch for brightness and spa-day vibes.
- Lemon wedges (optional): Squeezing fresh lemon at the table adds zing and helps lift all the flavors.
How to Make Garlic Boneless Baked Chicken Breast
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s good and hot when you’re ready. While it warms up, pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This little extra step helps ensure you’ll get delicious browning and avoids that dreaded steamed chicken syndrome. If your chicken breasts are on the thick side, gently pound them to an even thickness to encourage even cooking and maximum juiciness.
Step 2: Mix the Flavorful Marinade
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, onion powder, and Italian herbs. This quick marinade is the soul of your Garlic Boneless Baked Chicken Breast, infusing every bite with bold, aromatic flavor. Don’t be shy with the garlic here! The oven heat mellows it out and makes it irresistible.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts into a lightly greased baking dish, then brush or rub the garlic-oil mixture all over both sides of each breast. Make sure every inch is coated for even flavor and color. The olive oil also gives the chicken that characteristic golden sheen as it bakes.
Step 4: Bake to Juicy Perfection
Slide your dish into the oven, uncovered, and bake for about 22 to 26 minutes. You’re looking for the internal temperature to reach 165°F (74°C) and those delicious juices to run clear. The paprika and herbs really come alive in the heat, so your kitchen will start to smell amazing about halfway through!
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Take the baking dish out and let the chicken rest for five minutes before slicing. This pause lets the juices redistribute, guaranteeing every bite of your Garlic Boneless Baked Chicken Breast is just as moist and tender as the last. Garnish with chopped parsley and offer lemon wedges on the side for anyone who loves a citrusy pop.
How to Serve Garlic Boneless Baked Chicken Breast
Garnishes
For a fresh, vibrant touch, sprinkle on plenty of chopped fresh parsley. It brightens up both the look and flavor. Don’t forget those lemon wedges—guests can squeeze them over their portions for a customizable tang that complements the garlicky warmth perfectly. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil is another simple yet elegant finish.
Side Dishes
This chicken pairs effortlessly with just about anything! For an easy weeknight meal, try it with roasted vegetables or a crisp garden salad. Creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or herbed couscous all soak up those garlicky pan juices beautifully. Need a bread option? A chunk of rustic sourdough or a warm baguette is divine for mopping up extra flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
Transform your Garlic Boneless Baked Chicken Breast into a showstopper by slicing and fanning out each breast on a platter surrounded by colorful roasted veggies. Or, serve it atop a big salad, grain bowl, or even pasta tossed with a bit more olive oil and lemon. For lunch the next day, tuck slices into a sandwich with arugula and a swipe of mayo—it’s just as delicious cold.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool any leftover chicken completely, then transfer to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. The flavors deepen as the chicken chills, so it’s ideal for meal prep or quick lunches. Keep those pan juices—they’re liquid gold for reheating or drizzling over sides!
Freezing
If you’d like to make Garlic Boneless Baked Chicken Breast ahead, freeze individual portions tightly wrapped (or in freezer bags) for up to 2 months. Label with the date for best results, and thaw overnight in the fridge before using.
Reheating
To help retain moisture, reheat gently in the oven (covered with foil) at 325°F until warmed through, or microwave slices in short bursts with a splash of water or broth. This keeps the chicken juicy and prevents it from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work beautifully and bring a slightly richer flavor. Just remember to adjust the baking time a bit, as thighs may cook slightly faster depending on their size.
How do I keep the chicken from drying out?
The key is not to overbake—use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F internal temperature. Also, pounding the chicken to an even thickness and letting it rest after baking both help lock in moisture.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Of course! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a subtle kick, or serve with your favorite hot sauce on the side.
Can I marinate the chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix the marinade and chicken together in a zip-top bag or covered dish in the fridge for up to 8 hours before baking. It helps intensify the flavors, especially in the Garlic Boneless Baked Chicken Breast.
What should I do if my chicken breasts are very thick?
For best results, gently pound them to an even thickness of about ¾ inch before baking. This helps ensure even cooking throughout and gives you the juiciest Garlic Boneless Baked Chicken Breast imaginable.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a versatile, incredibly satisfying dinner, give this Garlic Boneless Baked Chicken Breast a spot on your table. It’s a tried-and-true favorite that’s simple to make and impossible to resist. Once you taste how juicy and flavor-packed every bite is, you’ll want to make it again and again. Happy cooking!
Print
Garlic Boneless Baked Chicken Breast Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Garlic Boneless Baked Chicken Breast recipe is a flavorful and easy dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. With a simple garlic and herb marinade, these juicy chicken breasts are baked to perfection, resulting in a deliciously tender and aromatic main course.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, optional)
- Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and place them in a lightly greased baking dish.
- Make the marinade: In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, and Italian herbs.
- Coat the chicken: Brush or rub the marinade over both sides of each chicken breast.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 22–26 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
- For extra juicy chicken, pound the breasts to an even thickness before baking.
- Add sliced vegetables to the pan to make it a one-dish meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
