Easy Lemon Herb Chicken Breast: A Flavorful Delight

If you’re searching for a quick and delightful chicken dish, look no further than Easy Lemon Herb Chicken Breast. This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious yet simple to prepare. With its tangy lemon and fragrant herbs, this dish brings vibrant flavors to the table, making it an instant family favorite. Enjoy it on its own or serve it alongside your favorite sides—either way, it’s bound to impress!

Why you’ll love this dish

There are countless reasons to love Easy Lemon Herb Chicken Breast. Not only is it a breeze to whip up, but it also packs a punch in flavor without breaking the bank. This dish is ideal for a weeknight dinner, a family brunch, or even meal prep for the week ahead. Plus, the marinade lends a zesty brightness that kids and adults alike will appreciate!

“I whipped up this lemon herb chicken for dinner last night, and it disappeared before I could even put it on the table! Totally a keeper!” – Sarah, a satisfied home cook.

Preparing Easy Lemon Herb Chicken Breast

Crafting this dish is incredibly straightforward, making it a fantastic option for both novice and experienced cooks. You’ll need to gather your ingredients first, but the preparation process flows seamlessly from there.

What you’ll need

2 large chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 cloves garlic, minced

This is a simple ingredient list, but feel free to swap out dried herbs for fresh ones if you have them on hand. Fresh oregano and thyme can elevate the dish even further!

Step-by-step instructions

In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, thyme, salt, pepper, and minced garlic until well combined.
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish, and pour the marinade over them. Ensure they are well covered. Allow the chicken to marinate for 15–30 minutes—this step is essential for infusing flavor.
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken breasts, cooking for 5–6 minutes on each side or until cooked through and golden brown.
Remove from the skillet and let the chicken rest briefly before slicing. Serve and enjoy!

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Best ways to enjoy it

Once your chicken is cooked to perfection, there are several mouthwatering ways to enjoy it! Consider serving it alongside a light salad, garlic mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also shred the chicken and toss it into a fresh pasta salad or serve it on a bed of fluffy quinoa for a hearty lunch option.

Storage and reheating tips

To keep your leftovers fresh, store any uneaten chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for up to three days. When reheating, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. If you want to stock up for later, this chicken can also be frozen for up to three months. Just ensure it’s securely wrapped!

Helpful cooking tips

For an extra depth of flavor, let the chicken marinate longer, even overnight if you have the time!
Searing the chicken in a hot skillet helps create a beautiful crust, enhancing both texture and flavor.
If you want a touch of sweetness, consider adding a teaspoon of honey to the marinade for a nice balance.

Creative twists

Feel free to get creative! Swap the lemon for lime for a tropical twist or use different herbs like basil for a refreshing change. If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.

Your questions answered

What’s the prep time for this recipe?
The marinate time adds an additional 15 to 30 minutes, but actual preparation takes about 10 minutes. Cooking time is roughly 10-12 minutes.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a richer flavor and will be even juicier, though the cooking time may vary slightly.

How do I know if the chicken is done?
The chicken should be golden brown on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s cooked through.

With this easy lemon herb chicken recipe, you’re equipped to impress your family and friends without the fuss. So, gather your ingredients and bask in the delicious results of your cooking efforts!

Easy Lemon Herb Chicken Breast

Author: majestyrecipes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 2 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten-Free

Print Recipe

Description

A quick and delightful chicken dish marinated in tangy lemon and fragrant herbs, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale

2 large chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions

In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, thyme, salt, pepper, and minced garlic until well combined.
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish, and pour the marinade over them. Ensure they are well covered. Allow the chicken to marinate for 15–30 minutes.
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken breasts, cooking for 5–6 minutes on each side or until cooked through and golden brown.
Remove from the skillet and let the chicken rest briefly before slicing. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

For extra flavor, let the chicken marinate longer, even overnight. Searing in a hot skillet creates a beautiful crust.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Sautéing
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 350
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 500mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 2g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 55g
Cholesterol: 100mg

Keywords: chicken, lemon, herb, quick dinner, easy recipe