Lemon Herb Baked Chicken (4-Ingredients Only!)

Looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious dinner option? This 4-Ingredient Lemon Herb Baked Chicken is the perfect recipe to satisfy your cravings while keeping things simple. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.

This recipe was born out of a busy weeknight when all I had on hand were chicken breasts, a lemon, dried herbs, and olive oil.

Little did I know that this combination would turn into a staple in my kitchen!

It’s proof that you don’t need a long list of ingredients to create something truly delightful.

Why You’ll Love This

1. Minimal Ingredients: With just four ingredients, it’s as easy as it gets.
2. Quick to Make: Perfect for busy weeknights with a total cook time of under an hour.
3. Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein and seasoned naturally.
4. Versatile: Pairs beautifully with rice, salads, or roasted veggies.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Cuisine: American

Servings: 4

Estimated Cost: $8-$10

Equipment:

• Baking dish
• Sharp knife
• Small bowl
• Basting brush
• Aluminum foil (optional)

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 lemon (juiced and zested)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of thyme, rosemary, and oregano)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, mix the lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, and dried herbs.
3. Season the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated evenly.
4. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to keep the chicken moist. Bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to allow the chicken to brown slightly.
5. Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite side dishes!

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 210
• Protein: 26g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 0g

Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest provide a vibrant, tangy flavor that bottled juice can’t match.
2. Don’t Skip the Foil: Covering the chicken ensures it stays juicy and doesn’t dry out.
3. Marinate Ahead: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours in the fridge.
4. Check Temperature: Avoid overcooking by using a meat thermometer for precise results.

Common Questions

1. Can I use bone-in chicken? Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Bone-in chicken takes longer to cook, usually 40-50 minutes.

2. Can I substitute the dried herbs? Absolutely! Feel free to use fresh herbs or other dried blends like Herbes de Provence.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! You can marinate the chicken a day ahead or bake it and reheat gently when needed.

4. What sides pair well with this dish? Try pairing it with garlic mashed potatoes, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

More Quick & Easy 4 ingredient chicken recipes –

• Crispy Parmesan Chicken
• Teriyaki Glazed Chicken
• 4-Ingredient BBQ Ranch Chicken
• 4-Ingredient Honey Garlic Chicken

Print Pin

Lemon Herb Baked Chicken (4-Ingredients Only!)

Looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious dinner option? This 4-Ingredient Lemon Herb Baked Chicken is the perfect recipe to satisfy your cravings while keeping things simple. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Keyword 4 Ingredient Lemon Herb Baked Chicken, Lemon Herb Baked Chicken

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes minutes

Total Time 40 minutes minutes

Servings 4

Cost $10

Ingredients

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 lemon juiced and zested
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs or a mix of thyme, rosemary, and oregano

Instructions

• Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, mix the lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, and dried herbs.
• Season the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated evenly.
• Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to keep the chicken moist. Bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to allow the chicken to brown slightly.
• Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite side dishes!

Notes

1. 1. Use Fresh Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest provide a vibrant, tangy flavor that bottled juice can’t match.
   2. Don’t Skip the Foil: Covering the chicken ensures it stays juicy and doesn’t dry out.
   3. Marinate Ahead: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours in the fridge.

With this Lemon Herb Baked Chicken recipe, dinner doesn’t have to be complicated.

Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of this dish, and happy cooking!