Quick Baked Chicken Breast
A creamy, flavorful baked chicken breast dish featuring mayonnaise, yogurt, lemon, and herbs, perfect for a quick, satisfying meal suitable for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine mayonnaise, yogurt, lemon juice, salt, garlic powder, tarragon, basil or thyme, pepper, and hot sauce if desired in a bowl.
- Brush the mixture generously over each chicken breast, coating completely.
- Place the coated chicken breasts in a buttered 13x9 inch baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour until cooked through and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a tangier flavor, consider using Greek yogurt instead of regular yogurt. You can also substitute the dried tarragon with oregano or Italian seasoning if preferred. If you're short on time, marinate the chicken breasts in the mixture for at least 30 minutes before baking for enhanced flavor. This recipe is a great base for variations, such as adding cheese on top during the last few minutes of baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked chicken breasts alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. They also pair beautifully with rice or quinoa, which can absorb the delicious flavors of the sauce. For a heartier option, consider serving with mashed potatoes or browse more American recipes for additional side ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover baked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on medium power until warm, ensuring not to overcook and dry it out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick Baked Chicken Breast contains roughly 11 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (19% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1180mg per serving (51% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use skin-on chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use skin-on chicken breasts, but keep in mind that they may require slight adjustments in cooking time. The skin can add extra flavor and crispiness, so just ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
How can I make this recipe lower in calories?
To lower the calorie count, you can reduce the amount of mayonnaise and replace it with additional yogurt or a low-fat version. Using skinless chicken breasts will also help. You can experiment with spices and herbs to enhance flavor without adding extra calories.
What can I do with leftover chicken?
Leftover chicken can be shredded and used in salads, wraps, or sandwiches. It can also be added to dishes like Easy Stuffed Chicken Breasts or used in a stir-fry. Simply reheat gently to maintain moisture and flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).