If you’re searching for a simple way to elevate your weeknight dinner game, Garlic Boneless Baked Chicken Breast is about to become your new go-to. This dish brings together juicy, perfectly baked chicken with a generous punch of garlic, paprika, and thyme, creating an irresistibly fragrant meal that’s healthy, quick, and totally satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for yourself, you’ll love how easy it is to put together and how the flavors will wow everyone at the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll love how the ingredient list for Garlic Boneless Baked Chicken Breast is refreshingly short, but every item has a big job. Each element delivers on flavor, juiciness, or aroma, turning basic chicken into something memorable and crave-worthy.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (4): The star of the recipe! Choose similar-sized pieces for even cooking and best texture.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Locks in moisture and helps the seasonings coat the chicken beautifully.
- Garlic, minced (4 cloves): For that bold, mouthwatering aroma and classic garlicky flavor.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Optimizes the natural flavors of both chicken and seasonings.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a gentle heat that balances the garlic and herbs.
- Paprika (1 teaspoon): Provides vibrant color and subtle smokiness—don’t skip it!
- Dried thyme (1/2 teaspoon): Infuses every bite with savory, aromatic notes.
- Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Rounds out the flavor profile with a sweet and savory punch.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): Adds a bright, fresh finish for an instant pop of color.
How to Make Garlic Boneless Baked Chicken Breast
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating, pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels—removing excess moisture helps the seasonings cling better and encourages even browning in the oven. Now’s a great time to line your baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking dish, ensuring easy cleanup later.
Step 2: Mix the Magic Seasoning
In a small bowl, blend together the olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, dried thyme, and onion powder. This aromatic mixture will serve as the flavor powerhouse for your Garlic Boneless Baked Chicken Breast. Take a sniff—it’s amazing already! Stir until you have a gorgeous, ruddy paste that’s ready to go.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of each chicken breast. Don’t be shy! Use your hands to truly work the flavors in (just wash them thoroughly after). Ensuring every nook and cranny is coated means each bite of your Garlic Boneless Baked Chicken Breast will be packed with deliciousness.
Step 4: Bake to Juicy Perfection
Arrange the chicken in your prepared baking dish or on your lined baking sheet, spacing them out for even cooking. Slide the tray into the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the thickest part of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). You’ll notice the irresistible aroma as the kitchen fills with garlicky goodness! If you have a kitchen thermometer, now’s the time to use it for perfectly juicy chicken.
Step 5: Rest and Garnish
Once baked, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This little pause locks in the juices, keeping your Garlic Boneless Baked Chicken Breast perfectly tender. Top with chopped fresh parsley for a final flourish—optional, but highly recommended!
How to Serve Garlic Boneless Baked Chicken Breast
Garnishes
Keep things simple and let parsley shine, or get creative with a sprinkle of chili flakes, thinly shaved parmesan, or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness. A drizzle of good olive oil just before serving also brings a touch of sophistication to Garlic Boneless Baked Chicken Breast.
Side Dishes
This chicken is wonderfully versatile. Serve it with fluffy mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or your favorite roasted veggies. For a lower-carb meal, pair with a crisp salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette. The savory garlic notes play beautifully with so many classic sides!
Creative Ways to Present
Slice leftovers thinly and pile onto toasted ciabatta with arugula and tomato for a stellar sandwich. Or, dice and toss with warm pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach for a hearty dinner bowl. The beauty of Garlic Boneless Baked Chicken Breast is how effortlessly it adapts to whatever you’re craving.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool any leftover chicken to room temperature, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps your Garlic Boneless Baked Chicken Breast moist, flavorful, and ready for lunch boxes or quick dinners throughout the week.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap each chicken breast individually in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer bag. Garlic Boneless Baked Chicken Breast freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
When it’s time to enjoy, reheat gently in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until warmed through, or microwave on low in 30-second intervals. Add a splash of broth or water before reheating to help maintain that juicy texture.
FAQs
How do I make sure the chicken stays juicy?
Pounding the breasts to an even thickness ensures they cook uniformly, preventing dryness. Don’t overbake—pull them at 165°F for the juiciest results!
Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless thighs work just as well. You may need to adjust baking time slightly, as thighs can be thicker and fattier, but the seasoning will be just as delicious.
What if I don’t have paprika or thyme?
No worries—try substituting with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, or even a mix of dried oregano and basil to create your unique spin on Garlic Boneless Baked Chicken Breast.
Is this recipe spicy?
Not at all! The flavors are aromatic and savory, but not spicy. Feel free to add a pinch of cayenne or some red pepper flakes if you want to introduce a little heat.
Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
You sure can! The chicken can be seasoned and refrigerated (covered) up to 24 hours in advance. This helps deepen the flavors and means less prep at dinnertime.
Final Thoughts
Give Garlic Boneless Baked Chicken Breast a try and see how easy it is to turn everyday ingredients into a standout meal. This is the kind of recipe you’ll love making again and again, and it’s guaranteed to fill your kitchen with warmth and those irresistible garlicky aromas. Happy cooking!
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Garlic Boneless Baked Chicken Breast Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Garlic Boneless Baked Chicken Breast recipe is a simple and flavorful way to prepare juicy chicken breasts in the oven. With a delicious garlic and herb seasoning, this dish is perfect for a quick and easy dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Seasoning:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
- Make the seasoning: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and onion powder.
- Season the chicken: Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of each chicken breast.
- Bake: Place the seasoned chicken in a lightly greased baking dish or on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear.
- Rest and serve: Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
- For extra juicy chicken, pound the breasts to an even thickness before baking.
- Leftovers are great sliced into salads, wraps, or pasta.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
