Description
This Melt-in-Your-Mouth Chicken Breast recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts infused with garlic, fresh herbs, and a tangy balsamic-lemon sauce. Starting with a flavorful sear on the stovetop and finishing in the oven, the dish is perfect for a wholesome, savory meal that’s quick and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh thyme or rosemary, chopped
Sauce and Cooking Liquids
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (divided use)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium optional)
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the chicken.
- Prepare and Season Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry thoroughly on a cutting board. Drizzle with olive oil and then sprinkle generously with salt, black pepper, minced garlic, and chopped fresh thyme or rosemary. Rub all ingredients into the chicken evenly to ensure full flavor coverage.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil. Place the chicken breasts into the skillet and sear each side for about 4-5 minutes until they develop a golden brown crust. This step locks in juices and enhances flavor.
- Add Cooking Liquids: Pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, lemon juice, and balsamic vinegar into the skillet. Let the mixture bubble gently to meld the flavors and create a savory sauce base.
- Bake the Chicken: Transfer the skillet with the chicken and sauce into the preheated oven. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), ensuring it is fully cooked and tender.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for at least five minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute for maximum moisture before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness to avoid overcooking.
- Fresh herbs can be substituted with dried herbs at one-third the quantity.
- For an even richer flavor, marinate the chicken in the seasoning mixture for 30 minutes prior to searing.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Serve with steamed vegetables or a side salad for a balanced meal.
