Are you craving a healthy and flavorful dinner that doesn't require hours in the kitchen? Look no further! This recipe for One-Pan Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken Breast is a simple, delicious, and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights. Inspired by the classic simplicity of Betty Crocker recipes, this dish elevates everyday chicken breast to a restaurant-quality experience with minimal effort. Get ready to impress yourself and your family with this easy and healthy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs total)
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 4 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This is a simple but crucial step for homemade cooking success!
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Season the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and rub it evenly over the chicken. Sprinkle generously with salt and pepper.
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Add Flavor: Tuck the lemon slices, rosemary, and thyme sprigs around the chicken breasts. Scatter the minced garlic over the chicken and herbs.
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Roast to Perfection: Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy – this ensures a juicy and perfectly cooked chicken breast every time!
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Rest & Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken breast.
Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure there's enough space between the chicken breasts for even cooking. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
- Adjust cooking time: Thicker chicken breasts may require a few extra minutes of cooking time. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
- Get creative with herbs: Feel free to experiment with other herbs like oregano, parsley, or sage.
- Add vegetables: Roast alongside your chicken with some chopped vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or potatoes for a complete one-pan meal!
Variations:
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken: Add 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese to the chicken before roasting.
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick.
- Mediterranean Chicken: Add sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: Approximately 250
- Protein: Approximately 35g
- Fat: Approximately 10g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 2g
This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It's a quick dinner idea that's both healthy and delicious, showcasing how even simple food recipes can result in delicious dishes and healthy meals. Enjoy this fantastic Betty Crocker-inspired recipe! It's a great example of homemade cooking at its finest, offering a delicious and satisfying experience without complicated techniques. Remember, even the best recipes are enhanced by a little personal touch – so feel free to adapt it to your taste!