Ina Garten’s Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts recipe is a simple yet elegant dish that guarantees juicy, flavorful chicken with minimal effort. Using a combination of fresh herbs, garlic, olive oil, and lemon, this method enhances the natural flavor of the chicken while keeping it moist and tender. Perfect for meal prep, a healthy weeknight dinner, or an elegant main course, this recipe delivers perfectly cooked chicken every time.

What Is Ina Garten’s Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts Recipe?

Ina Garten’s approach to boneless, skinless chicken breasts involves roasting or searing the chicken to lock in moisture while infusing it with aromatic herbs, lemon, and garlic.

Ina Garten Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts recipe — Ina Garten Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts

Other Ina Garten Recipes

Reasons to Try Ina Garten Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts

Juicy and flavorful – Cooking at the right temperature prevents dryness.
Simple ingredients, gourmet results – Uses fresh herbs, garlic, and lemon for deep flavor.
Versatile dish – Can be served on its own or used in salads, sandwiches, or pastas.
Healthy and protein-packed – Perfect for a balanced meal.
Easy to meal prep – Make ahead and store for quick meals throughout the week.

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons lemon zest
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried rosemary)

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts

Oven-Roasted Method:

Preheat the oven – Set to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
Prepare the marinade – In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, Dijon mustard, thyme, and rosemary.
Season the chicken – Pat the chicken dry and season both sides with salt and black pepper.
Marinate – Place the chicken in a shallow dish or resealable bag, coat with the marinade, and let sit for at least 15-30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
Bake the chicken – Arrange the marinated chicken breasts on the baking sheet and roast for 18-22 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Rest before serving – Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain juices.

Stovetop Method (Pan-Seared):

Heat the pan – Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear the chicken – Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
Add flavor at the end – In the last minute of cooking, add the garlic, thyme, and lemon juice to the pan, spooning the juices over the chicken.
Rest before serving – Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes before slicing.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts?

Pair with roasted vegetables – Asparagus, carrots, or Brussels sprouts complement the flavors.
Serve over a fresh salad – Sliced chicken works perfectly on arugula, spinach, or mixed greens.
Enjoy with rice or quinoa – Add a filling, wholesome base.
Serve with a light sauce – A lemon butter sauce or balsamic glaze enhances the dish.
Make it a sandwich or wrap – Use the chicken for a protein-packed meal.

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts

Don’t overcook – Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F to avoid dryness.
Let the chicken rest – Keep the juices locked in for maximum tenderness.
Marinate for deeper flavor – Even 30 minutes enhances taste and moisture.
Use fresh lemon and herbs – Boosts the flavor without overpowering.
Pound chicken to an even thickness – Ensures uniform cooking.

Creative Variations of Ina Garten Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts

Make it spicy – Add red pepper flakes or cayenne to the marinade.
Use different herbs – Try basil, oregano, or parsley for a unique twist.
Add honey for sweetness – Balances the acidity of the lemon.
Make it Mediterranean-style – Add feta cheese, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes.
Turn it into a creamy dish – Finish with a light cream sauce for extra richness.

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts

Refrigerate leftovers – Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze for later use – Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheat gently – Avoid overcooking when reheating to maintain juiciness.

Reheating Tips for Ina Garten Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts

Oven method – Reheat at 325°F for 10-12 minutes until warmed through.
Stovetop method – Warm in a pan with a little broth or olive oil over low heat.
Microwave for quick reheating – Heat in 30-second intervals, covering with a damp paper towel to prevent dryness.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts are a simple, flavorful, and versatile dish that works for any meal. Whether roasted in the oven or pan-seared, this recipe guarantees juicy, delicious chicken with minimal effort. Try it today and enjoy a healthy, easy-to-make meal that pairs perfectly with your favorite sides!

FAQs

How do I keep boneless skinless chicken breasts from drying out?

Marinating the chicken and cooking it at the right temperature (165°F) prevents dryness. Letting the chicken rest after cooking also helps retain moisture.

Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

Yes, chicken can be marinated overnight for deeper flavor. If using a marinade with lemon juice or vinegar, limit marinating time to 4-6 hours to avoid the meat becoming too acidic.

What is the best cooking method for boneless skinless chicken breasts?

Both roasting and pan-searing work well. Roasting at 400°F keeps the chicken juicy while pan-searing locks in flavor with a golden-brown crust.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but thaw the chicken completely in the refrigerator before marinating and cooking to ensure even cooking and the best flavor absorption.