Description
This Melt In Your Mouth Chicken Breast recipe delivers juicy, flavorful chicken that’s tender and bursting with herbs and garlic. Marinated and seared to perfection, then oven-baked in a rich broth, this dish is perfect for a satisfying and elegant meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Marinade
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
- 3 minced garlic cloves
- Herbs of choice (e.g. thyme, rosemary)
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Paprika or Italian seasoning (optional)
For Cooking
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or plant-based butter alternative)
- ½ cup chicken broth or vegetable broth
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine ¼ cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons lemon juice or apple cider vinegar, 3 minced garlic cloves, and your choice of herbs. Whisk until well blended to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor infusion.
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking the chicken.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Sear each chicken breast for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and flavorful.
- Add Broth: Pour ½ cup chicken or vegetable broth into the skillet with the seared chicken to keep it moist during baking.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), ensuring the chicken is cooked through and juicy.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for the full 2 hours if time allows.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- You can substitute the butter with plant-based alternatives for a dairy-free option.
- Serve with your favorite sides such as roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days.
