This Lemon and Herb Chicken Recipe combines zesty citrus flavors with the earthy aroma of fresh herbs to create a simple yet elegant dish. Whether you’re planning a healthy dinner or meal prep for the week, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- First and foremost, refreshing lemon and herb flavors make it a versatile choice for any meal.
- Additionally, this dish is packed with protein, making it both healthy and low-carb.
- Best of all, it’s quick to prepare with simple ingredients you likely already have on hand.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 2 lemons
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp paprika (optional, for color)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Marinade
- To begin, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, parsley, rosemary, thyme, salt, black pepper, and paprika (if using) in a small bowl.
- Afterward, taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning as needed to suit your flavor preferences.
2. Marinate the Chicken
- Next, place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated.
- Then, seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For deeper flavor, marinate for 2-4 hours; however, avoid marinating longer than 6 hours to prevent the lemon juice from breaking down the meat.
3. Cook the Chicken
Option 1: Pan-Seared (Quick and Easy)
- First, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- After removing the chicken from the marinade, let any excess drip off. Carefully place it in the skillet.
- Sear each side for 6-7 minutes, checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Option 2: Oven-Baked (Hands-Off Method)
- Begin by preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Next, arrange the marinated chicken breasts in a baking dish and drizzle any leftover marinade over the top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Option 3: Grilled (Smoky Flavor)
- Start by preheating your grill to medium heat for even cooking.
- Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 5-6 minutes per side. Flip once to achieve beautiful grill marks.
- Finally, before serving, ensure the internal temperature has reached 165°F.
4. Rest and Serve
- Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to lock in the juices.
- After resting, garnish with additional fresh parsley and lemon slices to enhance the presentation before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this lemon and herb chicken with:
- Roasted vegetables such as asparagus, zucchini, or carrots.
- Additionally, a refreshing salad like Greek or cucumber salad complements it well.
- For a more filling meal, serve with fluffy white rice or quinoa.
For more inspiration, explore our Roasted Vegetables Recipe.
Pro Tips for Perfect Lemon and Herb Chicken
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs bring vibrant flavor to this dish. When using dried herbs, however, reduce the quantity by half.
- Don’t Over-Marinate: Because the lemon juice can break down the chicken, avoid marinating for too long to prevent a mushy texture.
- Check Temperature: Using a meat thermometer ensures the chicken reaches 165°F, avoiding dryness.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes! Bone-in chicken works well but requires a longer cooking time—approximately 35-40 minutes in the oven.
What other herbs can I use?
Basil, dill, or oregano make great substitutes or additions to the recipe for variety.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken up to 6 hours in advance, or cook it and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
This Lemon and Herb Chicken Recipe strikes the perfect balance between zesty and savory flavors. Whether pan-seared, baked, or grilled, it’s a versatile dish suitable for any occasion. For more easy and flavorful chicken recipes, don’t forget to check out our Best Grilled Chicken Recipe.
Enjoy your fresh, flavorful chicken! 🎉