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Herb-Crusted Baked Chicken Breast

This baked chicken breast features a fragrant herb crust that keeps the meat juicy and tender. The process involves pounding the chicken to an even thickness, then coating it with a mixture of fresh herbs, garlic, and olive oil before baking to a golden perfection. The result is a visually appealing dish with a crisp, flavorful crust and moist interior.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Western
Calories: 220

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces chicken breasts pounded to even thickness
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

Equipment

  • Meat mallet or rolling pin
  • Baking dish or sheet
  • Kitchen brush or spoon
  • Meat thermometer

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Prepare a baking dish or sheet and set aside.
  2. Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound with a meat mallet or rolling pin until about 2.5 cm (1 inch) thick for even cooking.
  3. In a small bowl, combine chopped parsley, thyme, rosemary, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and lemon zest if using, mixing until fragrant and well blended.
  4. Use a brush or spoon to generously spread the herb mixture over both sides of each chicken breast, pressing slightly to help it stick.
  5. Arrange the coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish, ensuring they aren’t crowded to allow even heat circulation.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and juices run clear when pierced.
  7. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of a breast; it should read 75°C (165°F) to confirm doneness.
  8. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes; this helps retain juiciness.
  9. Slice the chicken across the grain, revealing a juicy interior with a crisp, aromatic herb crust.
  10. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the slices if desired, then serve and enjoy the fragrant, herb-crusted chicken.