Baked Garlic Chicken Breast

Ingredients

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut in half horizontally to form 4 “steaks” (see note 1)
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp freshly minced garlic (can be substituted with garlic powder)
• 1 tsp sweet paprika
• 1 tsp dried thyme (can be substituted with Italian mixed herbs, oregano, or any other herb of choice)
• 1 tsp sea salt flakes
• ½ tsp cracked black pepper
• Fresh thyme, to garnish (optional)

To Serve

• Freezer-Friendly Mashed Potatoes
• Green Leafy Salad with Balsamic Dressing

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F) or 200°C (400°F) if fan-forced.

2. Prepare the Chicken: Use a mallet, rolling pin, or your fist to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness, approximately 1.5 cm (1/2 inch) thick. Place a sheet of baking paper over the chicken to protect it while pounding.

3. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, mix the olive oil, brown sugar, lemon juice, garlic, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and toss them in the mixture to coat evenly.

4. Bake the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on a baking tray lined with baking (parchment) paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 15–18 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through.

5. Rest and Serve: Allow the chicken to rest for 2 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme if desired. Serve the chicken with mashed potatoes, drizzled with the juices from the baking tray, and a side of leafy green salad.

Notes:

1. Chicken Breasts: Cutting the chicken breasts in half horizontally creates thinner “steaks,” which cook more evenly and quickly in the oven.