Let me tell you, this high protein herb garlic baked chicken is an absolute game-changer in my kitchen! Not only is it packed with protein—40 grams per serving, to be exact—but it’s also bursting with flavor from those aromatic herbs and zesty lemon. I love how easy it is to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or even a cozy Sunday dinner. Just mix a few simple ingredients, coat the chicken, and pop it in the oven. The smell that fills your home as it bakes is pure magic! I promise, once you try it, this recipe will become a go-to in your meal rotation. Trust me on this one!
Ingredients List
- 4 chicken breasts, trimmed and patted dry
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, for a rich flavor and moisture
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced to infuse the chicken with that delicious aroma
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano, bringing in a warm, earthy taste
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme, which adds a hint of sweetness
- 1 teaspoon salt, to enhance all the flavors
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, for a little kick
- 1 lemon, juiced for a bright and zesty finish
How to Prepare High Protein Herb Garlic Baked Chicken
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your chicken bakes evenly and gets that lovely golden finish.
- While the oven warms up, grab a medium-sized bowl and mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. This is where the magic begins! The aromas will be incredible.
- Now, take your trimmed and patted dry chicken breasts, and coat them generously with the herb and garlic mixture. Make sure they’re well-covered; you want every bite to be bursting with flavor!
- Next, place the coated chicken breasts into a baking dish, arranging them in a single layer for even cooking.
- It’s time to bake! Pop the dish into your preheated oven and let the chicken bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear. Wow, that smell is heavenly!
- Once it’s cooked through, take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This step is super important because it allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your chicken moist and tender.
- Finally, slice, serve, and enjoy your delicious high protein herb garlic baked chicken! Don’t forget to pair it with some veggies for a complete meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- High in protein: Each serving packs a whopping 40 grams, perfect for fueling your day!
- Easy preparation: With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can have this dish ready in no time.
- Flavorful herbs: The combination of garlic, oregano, and thyme adds a burst of flavor that’ll keep you coming back for more.
- Healthy cooking method: Baking keeps the chicken juicy without all the extra oil, making it a lighter option.
- Versatile for diets: This recipe fits beautifully into low-fat and high-protein meal plans, making it suitable for a variety of dietary needs.
Tips for Success
- Use fresh herbs: If you can, opt for fresh oregano and thyme instead of dried. They really elevate the flavor and make your dish taste even more vibrant!
- Adjust cooking times: Keep in mind that thicker chicken breasts may need a little extra time in the oven. Always check the internal temperature to make sure it reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Let it rest: Don’t skip the resting step after baking! It’s crucial for keeping your chicken juicy and tender. Just five minutes makes a big difference.
- Pair with sides: Serve your herb garlic chicken with roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. It complements so many sides beautifully!
- Make it a meal prep star: This chicken is perfect for meal prep! Cook a batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy it in wraps, salads, or on its own throughout the week.
Nutritional Information
When it comes to health, this high protein herb garlic baked chicken really shines! Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional values per serving, which is based on standard ingredient options:
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 40g
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sodium: 500mg
These values are estimates and can vary based on your ingredient choices and cooking methods. But one thing’s for sure—this chicken is a protein-packed choice that’s as tasty as it is nutritious! Enjoy every bite knowing you’re fueling your body right!
FAQ Section
Can I use skin-on chicken?
Absolutely! Using skin-on chicken will give you a richer flavor and a crispier texture. Just keep in mind that it may add a bit more fat to the dish, so adjust your cooking time accordingly to make sure it cooks through properly.
What side dishes pair well with this recipe?
This high protein herb garlic baked chicken goes wonderfully with a variety of sides! I love serving it with roasted vegetables, a refreshing quinoa salad, or even a simple garlic mashed potato. You can’t go wrong with a side of steamed broccoli or a bright, zesty salad either!
Can I marinate the chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Marinating the chicken for a few hours or even overnight in the herb and garlic mixture will elevate the flavors even more. Just be sure to store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake!
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer; you want the internal temperature to reach 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, look for clear juices running from the chicken and that it’s no longer pink in the center.
Can I make this recipe in advance and reheat it?
Yes, this chicken is great for meal prep! Just cook it as directed, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use a microwave if you’re in a hurry!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing leftovers of this high protein herb garlic baked chicken is super simple! Once your chicken has cooled down, transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—perfect for meal prep or quick lunches! Just make sure to seal it tightly so it stays fresh.
When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, reheating is key to keeping that juicy flavor intact. The best method is to pop the chicken back into the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until it’s thoroughly heated. This way, it’ll warm up evenly and maintain its delicious texture. If you’re in a rush, you can also use a microwave, but be careful not to overheat it; heat in short bursts and check frequently to prevent it from drying out.
And if you ever find yourself with extra cooked chicken, you can also slice it up and toss it into salads, wraps, or grain bowls for a quick protein boost throughout the week. Trust me, you won’t want to waste a single bite of this flavorful dish!
Share Your Thoughts!
I’d love to hear how your high protein herb garlic baked chicken turns out! Did you try any fun variations, or perhaps you paired it with a side dish that really hit the spot? Please drop a comment below and share your experience—your feedback means the world to me! And if you enjoyed this recipe, why not share it with your friends and family? Let’s spread the love for delicious, healthy cooking together. Happy baking, and I can’t wait to hear from you!
For more delicious recipes, check out this protein cookie recipe or this healthy cheesecake recipe!
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High Protein Herb Garlic Baked Chicken: 40g Deliciousness
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A delicious and healthy high protein herb garlic baked chicken recipe.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lemon, juiced
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
- Coat the chicken breasts with the mixture.
- Place the chicken in a baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh herbs for more flavor.
- Adjust cooking time based on the thickness of the chicken breasts.
- Serve with a side of vegetables for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: high protein herb garlic baked chicken