Description
Baked thin chicken breasts are a healthy, great option for any meal. This quick and easy recipe ensures the chicken stays juicy and flavorful while cooking evenly in the oven. With a simple blend of spices, fresh lemon juice, and olive oil, it’s the perfect choice for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 Boneless Chicken Breasts - sliced in half
- A juice of 1-2 lemons
- 3 Tablespoons Olive Oil
- 2 Teaspoons Garlic Powder
- 1/2 Teaspoon Allspice
- 1/4 Teaspoon Cinnamon
- 1/4 Teaspoon Black Pepper
- 1/4 Teaspoon Cardamom Powder (optional)
- Sea Salt
Instructions
-
Slice the Chicken:
- Using a sharp knife and a sturdy chopping board, slice the chicken breasts lengthwise.
- Start from the thickest part and slice toward the thinnest part, working from the top down.
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Season the Chicken:
- Place the sliced chicken breasts in a medium-sized bowl.
- Pour olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and spices over the chicken.
- Using tongs, toss the chicken slices to ensure they are evenly coated with the seasoning.
- Marinate if possible for 1-2 hours or overnight.
-
Prepare for Baking:
- Arrange the seasoned chicken slices on a large baking tray, ensuring the pieces do not overlap.
-
Cook the Chicken:
- Bake uncovered in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 8–12 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
-
Serve:
- Optionally, top the cooked chicken with your favorite fresh herbs.
- Serve alongside a salad, roasted vegetables, or your preferred side dish.
Notes
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure uniform cooking and avoid dry edges.
- To keep the chicken juicy, use a meat thermometer to check its internal temperature at 165°F (75°C).
- After removing the chicken from the oven, let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
- For extra tenderness, marinate the chicken for 15-30 minutes before baking, or even overnight for deeper flavor.
Storage
- Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing to prevent condensation and fogginess.
- Store in an airtight container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.