Description
This high protein chicken recipe features tender, flavorful baked chicken breasts seasoned with garlic, paprika, oregano, and a hint of lemon. Perfect for a healthy, low-carb, and gluten-free meal, it’s easy to prepare and ideal for meal prep or a balanced dinner paired with vegetables or grains.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking your chicken evenly and thoroughly.
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the seasoning stick and ensures a nice crust during baking.
- Make the Seasoning Mix: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, ground black pepper, salt, dried oregano (or Italian seasoning), and lemon juice. Mix thoroughly to create a flavorful marinade.
- Season the Chicken: Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over all sides of the chicken breasts, making sure each piece is well coated for maximum flavor.
- Arrange for Baking: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish or on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist. Serve with steamed vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete, nutritious meal.
Notes
- For enhanced flavor, marinate the chicken in the seasoning mixture for up to 4 hours before baking.
- You can also opt to grill or pan-sear the chicken as an alternative cooking method for a different texture and flavor.
