Stress-Free Baked Chicken Breasts (Super-Juicy)
Serves 4
15 mins prep
30 mins cook
45 mins total
Learn the easiest way to make basic baked chicken breasts that turn out tender and juicy every time! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are simply seasoned with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs. Bake them on a sheet pan with halved fresh lemons to make a savory pan sauce to pour over the meat.
Get FREE mobile app to save your favorite recipes
Scan QR code to download mobile
Preheat the oven to 425 (220 C) degrees.
Put the chicken breasts on a medium rimmed baking sheet, such as a 13 x 9 inch quarter sheet pan. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken, then turn them over to coat both sides of the breasts with the oil.
Sprinkle the herbs and a generous amount of salt and pepper on both sides of the chicken breasts. Arrange the lemon halves flesh side down in the pan, around the chicken.
Bake 10 minutes, then flip the breasts over. Bake another 10 minutes. At this point, the breasts should feel firm to the touch and the juices in the pan should be starting to caramelize. An instant read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast should read 158-165 F. Keep in mind the meat will carry-over cook as it rests, so it's okay if it's a little under 165 degrees.
Let the chicken rest in the pan about 5 minutes. Transfer to a serving plate. Squeeze the roasted lemons over the chicken (one half lemon per breast). Add a tablespoon or so of water (or chicken broth) to the baking sheet and scrape up the pan juices. Pour the juice over the chicken and serve.
