Simple Herb-Crusted Chicken Breast
Clean and simple herb-crusted chicken breast with a golden crust and juicy interior, delivering 32g of protein per serving at just 280 calories for a wholesome weeknight dinner.
10m
4
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Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
Instructions
- 1
Prepare Chicken
Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. If any breasts are very thick, pound them to an even 3/4-inch thickness for uniform cooking.
- 2
Make Herb Mixture
In a small bowl, combine oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create the herb seasoning blend.
- 3
Season Chicken
Rub chicken breasts with 1 tablespoon olive oil and minced garlic. Sprinkle herb mixture evenly over both sides of each chicken breast, pressing gently to adhere.
- 4
Heat Pan
Heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking.
- 5
Sear Chicken
Add seasoned chicken breasts to the hot skillet. Sear for 3-4 minutes without moving until golden brown crust forms on the bottom.
- 6
Flip and Finish
Flip chicken breasts and cook another 3-4 minutes until golden. Reduce heat to medium-low and continue cooking 8-12 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- 7
Rest and Serve
Remove from heat and let chicken rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for a clean, simple finish.
Chef's Tips
Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature. Let the chicken rest after cooking to keep juices sealed in for maximum tenderness.
Nutrition Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about making this simple herb-crusted chicken breast
How long does it take to make Simple Herb-Crusted Chicken Breast?
This recipe takes 30 minutes total time, including 10 minutes prep time and 20 minutes cooking time.
How many servings does this Simple Herb-Crusted Chicken Breast recipe make?
This recipe yields 4 servings.
What is the difficulty level of this Simple Herb-Crusted Chicken Breast recipe?
This recipe is rated as Easy difficulty level, making it perfect for beginners.
Can I make substitutions in this Simple Herb-Crusted Chicken Breast recipe?
Yes, you can make substitutions, but they may affect the final result. Common substitutions include using different types of ingredients for dietary restrictions or personal preferences.
Can I make this simple herb-crusted chicken breast ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare this simple herb-crusted chicken breast up to 1 day ahead. Assemble the dish completely, cover with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bring to room temperature for 30 minutes, then bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if needed.
How do I store leftover simple herb-crusted chicken breast?
Store leftover simple herb-crusted chicken breast covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
What side dishes go well with simple herb-crusted chicken breast?
This simple herb-crusted chicken breast pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts, or crusty bread. For a complete meal, serve alongside grilled chicken or a protein of your choice.
Can I freeze simple herb-crusted chicken breast?
Yes, this simple herb-crusted chicken breast freezes well for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or store in freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.