Ina Garten Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts Recipe

There’s something truly comforting about a well-cooked chicken breast. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a home cook wanting to impress friends, Ina Garten’s boneless, skinless chicken breasts recipe fits the bill perfectly. Simple yet flavorful, this dish showcases the bright flavors of lemon and herbs while keeping the chicken tender and juicy. It’s one of those recipes you’ll reach for time and again, making it an all-time favorite for gatherings and Sunday dinners alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

When it comes to weeknight meals, this recipe is an absolute gem. It’s quick, delicious, and slathered in cozy flavors that make you feel right at home. The balance of olive oil, lemon, and aromatic herbs elevates simple chicken into a delightful dish that everyone in the family will adore.

"Made this for my family last night! It was a hit! Flavorful and so easy to prepare. I’ll definitely be keeping this in our weekly rotation!"

How to Make Ina Garten Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts Recipe

This delicious chicken dish is not only easy to prepare, but it also offers room for creativity in the kitchen. You’ll start with marinating the chicken, infusing it with all the robust flavors from the ingredients. The process is straightforward: season, cook, and serve! Below, you’ll find everything you need to create this delightful meal.

Ingredients

Gather these items to bring this delicious recipe to life:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Kosher salt and black pepper
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tsp lemon zest
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried)
• 1 tsp fresh rosemary (or ½ tsp dried)

For those looking to make swaps, olive oil can be replaced with avocado oil, and fresh herbs can be substituted with dried ones in smaller amounts to suit your taste.

Directions

Oven Method:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, Dijon mustard, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are well coated.
4. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and registers 165°F (74°C).
5. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Stovetop Method:

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Add the chicken to the skillet, cooking for 6 to 7 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Reduce heat, add the garlic and herbs in the last few minutes for extra flavor.
5. Serve warm with a drizzle of any leftover pan sauce.

Serving Suggestions

This chicken dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables. Serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a colorful quinoa salad for a wholesome feast. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon right before serving can add a delightful touch!

Storage & Reheating

To keep leftovers fresh, store your cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. If you’d like to freeze it, individually wrap the chicken breasts in foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll maintain their quality for about three months. To reheat, simply bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or heat on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep it moist.

Pro Tips

For the best results, consider pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure they cook uniformly. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours) for an intensified flavor. Don’t skip letting the chicken rest after cooking; this helps retain its juices!

Variations

Add a zesty twist by incorporating different herbs like basil or oregano, or spice it up with a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. For a Mediterranean flair, try adding sun-dried tomatoes or olives to the marinade. And if you’re feeling adventurous, swap the lemon for lime or orange juice for a completely different flavor profile!

FAQs

• Can I use bone-in chicken breasts?
  Yes, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time to ensure they’re fully cooked. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

• What can I serve with this chicken?
  This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, couscous, or even a refreshing coleslaw.

• Can I make this ahead of time?
  Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken in advance and cook it just before serving for the best taste.

For more delicious chicken recipes, check out our easy baked chicken thighs and simple chicken stir-fry.