A succulent and flavorful chicken dish with a savory marinade, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale:
1/4 cup olive oil
3 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Additional salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade. Whisk until well-blended, ensuring the herbs are evenly distributed.
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results. This allows the flavors to infuse deeply, making the chicken incredibly juicy and flavorful.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade and pat them dry with paper towels. This step helps achieve a nice sear by removing excess moisture from the surface.
Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish. Drizzle the melted butter over the chicken, then sprinkle with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and additional salt and pepper. Ensure each piece is evenly coated with the seasoning for consistent flavor.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). For a beautiful golden-brown finish, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning.
Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring a juicy chicken breast with every bite. Avoid cutting into the chicken immediately, as this may cause the juices to escape.
