Herb-Roasted Chicken Breast
Tender, juicy chicken breast roasted to perfection with a fragrant crust of rosemary, thyme, and garlic. A simple, healthy main course that's full of flavor without the salt.
For 4 servings
Prepare for roasting
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick and the skin to brown nicely.
Make the herb seasoning
- In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, dried rosemary, dried thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt substitute.
- Mix well until it forms a paste.
Season the chicken
- Place the chicken breasts in a single layer on a baking sheet or in a roasting pan.
- Rub the herb paste evenly over all sides of each chicken breast.
Roast the chicken
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer at the thickest part.
Rest and serve
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest on a cutting board for 5-10 minutes.
- This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
- Slice and serve warm.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For even cooking, make sure your chicken breasts are of similar thickness. You can gently pound the thicker end if needed.
- 2A meat thermometer is the best way to ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly without drying it out.
- 3Letting the chicken rest before slicing is crucial for a juicy result. Don't skip this step!
- 4Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- 5Feel free to experiment with other salt-free herbs like oregano, basil, or a pinch of sage.
Adapt it for your goals.
Quick
Butterfly the chicken breasts (slice them horizontally almost all the way through) to create thinner cutlets that will cook in about 10-15 minutes.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Use a milder herb blend by omitting the black pepper and using more garlic and onion powder. Serve with a side of low-sodium ketchup.
high proteinHigh protein
Serve with a side of quinoa or a bean salad to significantly increase the protein content of the meal.
dairy freeDairy free
This recipe is naturally dairy-free. Ensure you serve it with dairy-free side dishes like roasted vegetables or a simple salad.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Lean Protein
Chicken breast is a fantastic source of high-quality lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
Heart-Healthy
This recipe is very low in sodium, which helps manage blood pressure and supports cardiovascular health. Olive oil also provides healthy monounsaturated fats.
Rich in B Vitamins
Chicken is a good source of B vitamins like niacin (B3) and pyridoxine (B6), which are crucial for energy metabolism and brain health.
Supports Weight Management
The high protein content helps you feel full and satisfied, which can aid in weight management by reducing overall calorie intake.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, this is a very healthy dish. It's high in lean protein, low in saturated fat, and specifically designed to be low in sodium, which is beneficial for heart health and blood pressure management.