Prepare the Chicken

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature helps create a golden, slightly crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy.
2. Season the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board. Drizzle olive oil over both sides, then season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme. Rub the seasonings into the chicken to ensure it’s evenly coated.
3. Sear the Chicken (Optional): For an extra layer of flavor, you can sear the chicken in a hot skillet with a little olive oil for about 2 minutes on each side, just until golden. This step is optional but highly recommended if you want to enhance the flavor and texture of the chicken.
4. Transfer to Baking Dish: After seasoning (and searing, if desired), place the chicken breasts into a baking dish. Set aside while you prepare the sauce.

Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

1. Melt the Butter: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
2. Add Lemon: Stir in the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, basil, oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
3. Pour Over Chicken: Pour the lemon butter sauce over the chicken breasts, making sure they are well-coated. You can spoon some of the sauce over the chicken to make sure it’s evenly distributed.

Bake the Chicken

1. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear.
2. Check for Doneness: To ensure the chicken is perfectly cooked, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the breast. Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove the dish from the oven.

Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the chicken for a pop of color and freshness.
2. Serve: Serve the chicken with your favorite side dishes—rice, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad all make fantastic pairings. Drizzle any remaining lemon butter sauce from the pan over the chicken for extra flavor.