Recipe Chicken Recipe
This Recipe Chicken Recipe is a simple, tender, juicy chicken dinner ready in under an hour—your new favorite comfort food.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1½ pounds total; thighs work if you prefer richer flavor)
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (or avocado oil for a higher smoke point)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon; limes work, too)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (jarred garlic in a pinch)
- 1 teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste; kosher salt is milder)
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or 1 tablespoon fresh, finely chopped)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (regular paprika is fine)
- 1 teaspoon Optional: honey or maple syrup for a light glaze (skip for sugar-free)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this simple step prevents sticking and speeds cleanup.
- In a medium bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, pepper, oregano, paprika, and honey (if using). Taste and tweak—if it’s too tangy, a pinch more honey smooths it out.
- Add chicken breasts to the bowl, coating evenly. Massage the oil mixture into each piece for about 30 seconds.
- Let the chicken rest at room temperature for 15–20 minutes, or chill in the fridge for up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
- Arrange breasts on the prepared sheet pan, spacing at least 1 inch apart. Bake 20–25 minutes, or until a meat thermometer reads 165°F.
- Remove from oven and tent with foil for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving.
Notes
Choose chicken with a firm texture and pale pink hue. Pat it dry before marinating for best results.