Transform your weeknight dinners with this irresistibly "Heart-Healthy Juicy Baked Chicken Pieces" recipe that's as wholesome as it is delicious. Featuring tender, boneless chicken breasts or thighs marinated in a fragrant blend of olive oil, zesty lemon juice, garlic, and herbs like oregano and thyme, this dish bursts with flavor while staying low in saturated fat and sodium. Baked to perfection in low-sodium chicken broth and sealed with foil for extra moisture, the result is juicy, melt-in-your-mouth chicken with a golden finish. Ready in just 40 minutes, including prep, and garnished with fresh parsley, this easy, heart-smart recipe pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables or a whole-grain pilaf for a complete and nourishing meal. Perfect for health-conscious families or anyone seeking a balanced yet flavorful dinner option!
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, oregano, thyme, black pepper, and salt until well combined.
Place the chicken pieces in a large mixing bowl or a zip-lock bag and pour the marinade over them. Ensure each piece is thoroughly coated, then let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes.
Once marinated, arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer in a baking dish.
Pour the low-sodium chicken broth around the chicken pieces in the dish, being careful not to pour it directly over the chicken as this will wash away some of the marinade.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, sealing tightly to ensure the chicken retains its moisture while baking.
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
Remove the foil and continue baking for another 5 minutes to allow the chicken to brown slightly.
Check the chicken for doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Once done, remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for garnish.
Serve the chicken with your favorite heart-healthy sides, such as steamed vegetables or a whole-grain pilaf.
Calories |
1441 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 54.0 g | 69% | |
| Saturated Fat | 11.4 g | 57% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 592 mg | 197% | |
| Sodium | 1150 mg | 50% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 8.5 g | 3% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.3 g | 8% | |
| Total Sugars | 1.6 g | ||
| Protein | 218.2 g | 436% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.3 mcg | 11% | |
| Calcium | 123 mg | 9% | |
| Iron | 8.5 mg | 47% | |
| Potassium | 1987 mg | 42% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.