Welcome to a delightful culinary experience with our Herb-Infused Baked Chicken with Citrus Zest. This dish is a perfect blend of fragrant herbs and bright citrus that transforms simple chicken breasts into a mouthwatering meal. It’s perfect for a weekday dinner or a weekend treat without any fuss.
Let’s break down what makes this dish shine. First, our hero ingredient, the chicken breasts, are lean and absorb the flavors beautifully. The olive oil acts as the base for our marinade, helping to keep the chicken moist. Adding a pinch of salt and black pepper enhances all the flavors. The fresh herbs, rosemary and thyme, bring a burst of earthiness that pairs wonderfully with the lemon zest and orange zest. These zests add a tangy brightness that complements the savory elements. A touch of garlic introduces a robust, aromatic depth. The chicken broth keeps everything juicy while baking. Finally, lemon and orange slices not only look beautiful but infuse even more citrusy goodness as the chicken bakes.
This chicken is versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Try serving it with a light quinoa salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. A side of garlic mashed potatoes can also complement the citrus flavors beautifully. If you’re in the mood for something fresh, a simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing works perfectly.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your oven is nice and hot when your chicken goes in, which helps it cook evenly. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, salt, pepper, rosemary, thyme, lemon zest, orange zest, and minced garlic. The idea is to create a paste that you'll use to coat the chicken. Now, rub this mixture generously over the chicken breasts. Don’t be shy; you want every inch covered to ensure maximum flavor.
Next, place the chicken breasts in a baking dish. Pour the chicken broth around them. This not only keeps the chicken juicy but also creates a delicious sauce as it cooks. Layer the lemon and orange slices on top of the chicken. These will release their juices and infuse the chicken with a lovely citrus aroma. Pop the dish into your preheated oven and let it bake for 25-30 minutes. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once done, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making your chicken tender and juicy.