Healthy Baked Lemon Chicken Breast

Name: Healthy Baked Lemon Chicken Breast
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Light Kitchen Magic

I’ve been on a quest to create a dish that’s both healthy and bursting with flavor, and that’s exactly what this Healthy Baked Lemon Chicken Breast delivers. With a zesty lemon marinade that infuses the chicken with tangy goodness, it’s a recipe that I return to time and again. The best part? It’s quick to prepare and cooks in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner choice. With fresh herbs and a hint of garlic, this dish transforms a simple chicken breast into something special.

Created by

Katherine Blake

Last updated on 2026-02-27T21:04:48.876Z

Creating this Healthy Baked Lemon Chicken Breast was a delightful experience. I wanted a dish that not only tasted amazing but also fitted well within a healthy eating plan. By marinating the chicken in fresh lemon juice and olive oil, I found it tender and juicy, bursting with flavor. The result is a perfect harmony of brightness from the lemon and subtle herbs that lifts the entire dish.

While experimenting, I realized that baking the chicken at a higher temperature allows it to cook evenly while still retaining moisture. It's also an easy dish to make in bulk, so doubling the recipe is a fabulous idea for meal prep! I love serving it with steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

What You'll Love About This Recipe
Bright, zesty flavor from fresh lemons
Simple ingredients that you probably have at home
Healthy, lean protein that fits into any meal plan

Mastering the Marinade

The marinade for this Healthy Baked Lemon Chicken Breast is the star of the dish. The combination of fresh lemon juice, olive oil, and garlic not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with a vibrant flavor. Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 10 minutes is crucial, but if you have the time, extending this to an hour or even overnight in the refrigerator will deepen the flavors even further. Just be sure to cover the dish tightly to prevent any flavor leakage.

When mixing the marinade, whisk thoroughly until all components blend into a cohesive mixture. This ensures that the garlic and oregano are evenly distributed, coating the chicken uniformly. For added zing, consider incorporating a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of white wine to the marinade. These additions enhance the dish without overwhelming the fresh lemon brightness.

Baking to Perfection

Baking the chicken at 400°F (200°C) strikes the right balance between cooking through and retaining moisture. Keep an eye on the chicken as it bakes for 25 to 30 minutes; you know it’s done when the juices run clear and the chicken's surface is golden and slightly firm. If you're unsure, using a meat thermometer to check for the 165°F (75°C) internal temperature will give you confidence in your cooking.

To achieve even cooking, arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer without overlapping. If your baking dish is overcrowded, consider using two separate dishes to allow for proper heat circulation. This prevents the chicken from steaming and ensures that each piece develops those desirable golden edges while still staying juicy inside.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a mouthwatering dish.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Once you have everything ready, you'll be set to make a delicious meal!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare and bake your chicken.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare the Marinade

In a small bowl, mix the lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.

Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the marinade over them. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes.

Bake the Chicken

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is no longer pink and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite sides.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, let the chicken marinate for up to 2 hours, or overnight for an even deeper taste.

Serving Suggestions

This baked lemon chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. The acidity from the lemon in the chicken complements earthy sides like quinoa or brown rice, creating a balanced meal. If you're feeling adventurous, serve it over a bed of lemon-infused couscous for an additional citrus kick.

For a more substantial meal, you might want to add a starch. Mashed potatoes or creamy polenta would lend a comforting touch. Alternatively, if you're looking for a low-carb option, cauliflower mash or steamed asparagus will work wonderfully, keeping the meal light yet satisfying.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you anticipate not finishing the chicken within that timeframe, consider freezing it instead. Scatter the cooked chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid before transferring it to a freezer-safe bag. This prevents pieces from sticking together, allowing you to grab just what you need later on.

When reheating, try to do so gently to maintain moisture. Thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen, then warm in the oven at a low temperature, around 300°F (150°C), to keep the chicken juicy. You can also add a splash of chicken broth to help revive the moisture if it seems a bit dry.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time. Bone-in chicken typically takes longer to cook.

→ What can I serve with baked lemon chicken?

This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh green salad.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days.