Gluten Free Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken Breast Easy Weeknight Dinner

Introduction:

Are you searching for a weeknight dinner that is both incredibly flavorful and wonderfully healthy? Look no further! These Gluten Free Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken Breasts are the answer. They are naturally gluten-free, low-carb, packed with protein, and ready in about 30 minutes.

The secret to this dish lies in the simple, yet potent, marinade of fresh lemon juice, fragrant herbs (like rosemary and thyme), and a touch of quality olive oil. Roasting the chicken breasts locks in all the moisture, resulting in chicken that is perfectly tender and juicy every single time. Whether you’re adhering to a gluten-free diet or just want a delicious, no-fuss meal, this recipe is a guaranteed winner.

Why You’ll Love This Roasted Chicken Breast Recipe

• Naturally Gluten-Free: No need for substitutions—this recipe is clean and simple.
• Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights; most of the time is hands-off roasting.
• Meal Prep King: Tastes great cold, making it ideal for salads and lunches all week long.
• Versatile Flavor: The bright lemon and earthy herb flavor pairs well with almost any side dish.
• Healthy & Lean: A great source of lean protein that fits into most healthy eating plans.

Ingredients for Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken

This recipe uses simple, fresh ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry and fridge.

Ingredient	Amount	Notes
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts	4 (about 6-8 oz each)	Opt for breasts of similar size for even cooking.
Fresh Lemon Juice	1/4 cup	Essential for brightness and tenderizing the meat.
Olive Oil (Extra Virgin)	2 tablespoons	Helps the chicken brown and keeps it moist.
Fresh Garlic	3 cloves, minced	Adds a foundational savory depth.
Dried or Fresh Thyme	1 teaspoon (or 1 tablespoon fresh)	Earthy and slightly floral, a classic poultry herb.
Dried or Fresh Rosemary	1 teaspoon (or 1 tablespoon fresh)	Piney and pungent; pairs beautifully with lemon.
Salt	1 teaspoon	To season and enhance all the flavors.
Black Pepper	1/2 teaspoon	Freshly ground is always best.
Lemon Slices	1 small lemon, sliced	For roasting and presentation (optional).

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps for perfectly roasted chicken breasts every time:

Step 1: Prep the Chicken and Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
2. Pat the Chicken Dry: Using paper towels, thoroughly pat the chicken breasts dry. This is crucial for achieving a nice, caramelized crust and locking in moisture.
3. Optional: If the chicken breasts are very thick, you can gently pound them to an even thickness (about 1 inch) to ensure uniform cooking.

Step 2: Lemon Herb Marinade

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the prepared chicken breasts in a large bowl or a zip-top bag. Pour the lemon-herb mixture over the chicken, making sure to coat both sides evenly.

Pro Tip: Marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature to infuse the flavor. For deeper flavor, marinate in the fridge for up to 4 hours.

Step 3: Roast to Perfection

1. Place the chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them.
2. If using, lay a few fresh lemon slices directly on top of or next to the chicken.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes. The exact time will depend on the thickness of your chicken.
4. The chicken is done when the internal temperature, measured with a meat thermometer at the thickest part, reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 4: Rest and Serve

1. Remove the baking sheet from the oven. CRITICALLY, let the chicken breasts rest on the pan or a cutting board for 5–10 minutes before slicing or serving.
2. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, guaranteeing the most tender and juicy result.
3. Garnish with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon if desired, and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions for Your Gluten Free Meal

This bright and flavorful gluten-free lemon herb chicken is incredibly versatile. Here are a few perfect pairings:

• Starch-Free/Low-Carb: Serve with roasted asparagus or garlic sautéed spinach.
• Hearty Grains (Gluten-Free): Pair with a side of fluffy quinoa or brown rice.
• Simple & Fresh: Serve alongside a big Mediterranean salad with cucumbers, olives, and feta.
• Comfort Food: Serve with creamy mashed potatoes or a sweet potato puree.

Roasted Chicken Breasts FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

You should always thaw frozen chicken completely before marinating and roasting. Roasting partially frozen chicken will result in uneven cooking.

How do I prevent my chicken from drying out?

There are three key steps:

1. Don’t Overcook: Use a meat thermometer! Take it out exactly at 165∘F.
2. Pat it Dry: Dry surface helps the outside caramelize quickly, sealing in juices.
3. Rest: Always rest the chicken for 5-10 minutes after cooking.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken up to 4 hours in advance. Once cooked, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it perfect for gluten-free meal prep.

Love This Recipe?

If you enjoyed making and eating these Gluten Free Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken Breasts, we’d love to hear from you!

• Rate It: Please leave a star rating and a comment below to let us know how it turned out. Your feedback helps other home cooks!
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Note

This recipe is designed for boneless, skinless chicken breasts.¹ If you choose to use bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts, the cooking time will increase significantly (usually 35–45 minutes). Ensure the internal temperature still reaches $165^\circ\text{F}$ and the skin is golden brown and crisp.

Special Note:

To enhance the flavor and appearance, preheat a separate, oven-safe skillet (like cast iron) in the oven while it warms up. When you place the marinated chicken on the hot skillet, it will immediately start to sear, resulting in a beautiful crust and deeper flavor than simply using a baking sheet.

Nutrition Information (Estimated per Serving)

The following is an estimated nutritional breakdown for one 6-ounce serving of the Gluten-Free Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken Breast (without sides).

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	$250\text{ kcal}$
Protein	$45\text{ g}$
Fat	$7\text{ g}$
Saturated Fat	$1.5\text{ g}$
Carbohydrates	$1\text{ g}$
Fiber	$0\text{ g}$
Sugar	$0\text{ g}$
Sodium	$650\text{ mg}$

Nutrition Disclaimer

Please note that the nutrition information provided above is an estimate calculated using an online nutrition calculator and is based on the ingredients and measurements listed in the recipe card. This information is provided as a courtesy and should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice. Variations may occur based on ingredient brands, cooking methods, and precise measurements used.