Juicy Low-Calorie Baked Chicken Breast (350 calories) - delicious Canadian chicken recipe
Easy

Juicy Low-Calorie Baked Chicken Breast (350 calories)

(759)
32 min4350 cal

By Chef Marco Deluca·Red Seal Certified Chef|March 15, 2024

The number one complaint about healthy chicken breast is that it's dry and flavourless — and honestly, most of the time, people are right because they're overcooking it by 10 minutes. This recipe fixes both problems. The chicken breast is pounded to even thickness so it cooks uniformly, seasoned with a bright lemon-herb blend, and baked at 400°F for exactly 18-22 minutes depending on thickness. The pounding is key — uneven chicken means the thin end is sawdust by the time the thick end is safe. With roasted vegetables on the same baking sheet, the entire meal is 350 calories, 38g of protein, and requires one pan and one set of dishes. This is Monday-through-Friday eating that doesn't make you dread dinnertime.

healthy-chickenlow-caloriebakedweeknight

Ingredients

Servings:
4

Instructions

👨‍🍳Chef's Notes

High Heat Finish

Start at 200°C (400°F) for even cooking, then blast at 230°C (450°F) for the last 5 minutes to crisp the skin. This two-temperature method gives you juicy meat with golden, crackly skin.

Bring to Room Temperature

Take chicken out of the fridge 20-30 minutes before cooking. Cold chicken straight from the fridge cooks unevenly — the outside overcooks while the centre stays underdone.

Let It Rest

Always rest chicken for 5-10 minutes after pulling from the oven. The internal temperature continues rising 3-5°F while juices redistribute. Cut too early and all that flavour runs onto the cutting board.

About This Recipe

There's something truly special about a perfectly cooked chicken breast, and this Juicy Low-Calorie Baked Chicken Breast is a testament to that simplicity. Canadian home cooks cherish this dish for its ease and delightful flavor, making it a go-to for busy weeknights. The combination of zesty lemon, fragrant oregano, and sweet cherry tomatoes complements the tender chicken beautifully, ensuring each bite is a burst of freshness. When served alongside vibrant broccoli florets, you have a wholesome meal that feels indulgent yet is health-conscious, clocking in at just 350 calories per serving.

This recipe shines not only because of its taste but also due to its practicality. With just one pan required, cleanup is a breeze, making it perfect for those evenings when you want something healthy without the fuss. I've often turned to this dish when meal prepping for the week, as it delivers on flavor and nutrition while fitting seamlessly into a busy Canadian lifestyle. Whether it's a family dinner or a meal for one, this baked chicken breast is sure to become a beloved staple in your home.

Tips for the Best Juicy Low-Calorie Baked Chicken Breast (350 calories)

To achieve perfectly juicy chicken breasts, it's crucial to pound them to an even thickness before baking. This ensures they cook uniformly and prevents the thinner edges from drying out. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for doneness, and use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Remember, every oven behaves differently, so start checking at 18 minutes—this will help you avoid overcooking and ensure your chicken remains moist and flavorful.

What to Serve With It

This baked chicken breast pairs beautifully with roasted potatoes seasoned with fresh herbs, which add heartiness to the meal. For a Canadian twist, consider serving it alongside a light maple mustard vinaigrette salad featuring mixed greens, walnuts, and sliced apples. The combination of flavors will impress your family and friends while keeping the meal healthy and vibrant, perfect for any night of the week.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover chicken breasts can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat without drying them out, try warming them gently in the microwave with a damp paper towel covering the plate, or reheat in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through. If you want to freeze them, wrap each breast tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Nutrition Per Serving

350
Calories
38g
Protein
14g
Fat
16g
Carbs
Fiber3g
Sugar4g
Sodium420mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use skin-on chicken breasts for this recipe?+

While skin-on chicken breasts can be used, they may require a longer cooking time and could add extra calories. If you prefer the skin for flavor, consider roasting it separately to retain the chicken's juiciness.

What if I don’t have broccoli or cherry tomatoes?+

Feel free to swap in any vegetables you have on hand! Asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini would work beautifully. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is tender.

Can I marinate the chicken in advance?+

Absolutely! Marinating the chicken for a few hours or overnight in lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs will enhance the flavor. Just be cautious not to marinate too long, as the acidity can affect the texture of the chicken.

How can I tell when the chicken is done cooking?+

The most reliable way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have one, cut into the thickest part of the breast; the juices should run clear and the meat look opaque.

Is it possible to cook this dish on the grill instead of baking?+

Yes! You can grill the pounded chicken breasts over medium heat. Just be sure to keep an eye on them, as grilling times can vary, and aim for the same internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Reviews

4.8 / 5 (759 reviews)
Michelle A.
Mar 4, 2025

Best chicken recipe I have tried in a long time.

Sarah X.
Feb 22, 2025

Really good! I added a bit more seasoning but otherwise perfect.

Brandon F.
Oct 5, 2025

This is comfort food at its finest. Pure perfection.

Sophie C.
Feb 24, 2025

Simple ingredients, amazing results. Highly recommend.

Recipe at a Glance

Prep:
10 min
Cook:
22 min
Total:
32 min
Servings:
4
Difficulty:
Easy

Pro Tips

  • 1A meat thermometer eliminates guessing. Pull at 160°F and rest for 5 minutes — carryover cooking brings it to 165°F.
  • 2Pounding to even thickness is the most underrated technique in chicken cooking. It takes 2 minutes and changes everything.
  • 3Spray the baking sheet with cooking spray or use parchment — chicken breast sticks to bare metal.

Variations

  • Cajun version: swap the lemon-herb seasoning for cajun spice and serve with roasted sweet potato.
  • Italian version: top with marinara and a slice of mozzarella in the last 3 minutes of baking.
  • Asian version: swap lemon for lime, add ginger and soy sauce to the seasoning.

Healthy Chicken Recipes

Juicy Low-Calorie Baked Chicken Breast (350 calories)

One bite of this Juicy Low-Calorie Baked Chicken Breast (350 calories) and you will be hooked. Save for later!

by ChickenRecipes.ca

Juicy Low-Calorie Baked Chicken Breast (350 calories) - delicious Canadian chicken recipe
Chef Marco Deluca

Chef Marco Deluca

Head Chef & Recipe Developer

Marco is a Red Seal certified chef with over 15 years of professional kitchen experience across Canada. After training at George Brown College in Toronto and working in acclaimed restaurants from Vancouver to Montreal, he founded ChickenRecipes.ca to share his expertise with home cooks. Marco specializes in making restaurant-quality chicken dishes accessible for everyday Canadian kitchens.

Red Seal Certified ChefGeorge Brown College Culinary Arts Graduate15+ years professional kitchen experience

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