Chicken Breast with Lemon and Herbs
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
A delightful dish featuring tender chicken breast infused with zesty lemon and aromatic herbs.
This recipe for Chicken Breast with Lemon and Herbs is a perfect blend of flavors that enhances the natural taste of chicken. The citrusy notes from lemon combined with the fresh herbs create a refreshing and vibrant dish.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Bright and zesty flavor that elevates chicken to a new level
- Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients
- Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions
The Perfect Balance of Flavors
This Chicken Breast with Lemon and Herbs recipe beautifully combines the tangy brightness of lemon with the earthy notes of oregano and thyme. The marinade not only infuses the chicken with flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat, making it incredibly juicy. The zesty lemon cuts through the richness of the chicken, creating a harmonious balance that’s both satisfying and refreshing.
When you take a bite of this dish, you'll experience an explosion of flavors that dance on your palate. The garlic adds an aromatic depth, while the olive oil ensures the chicken remains moist during cooking. This is a dish that is sure to impress your family and guests alike, making it a staple in your recipe collection.
Versatile and Adaptable
One of the best features of this chicken recipe is its versatility. You can easily adapt the marinade to suit your taste preferences. For a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce. If you prefer a more herby flavor, experiment with fresh herbs like basil or parsley instead of dried ones.
Additionally, this dish pairs well with a variety of sides, from roasted vegetables to a simple green salad. You can serve it over a bed of rice or quinoa for a complete meal. The possibilities are endless, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.
Meal Prep Made Easy
If you're looking to streamline your weeknight dinners, this Chicken Breast with Lemon and Herbs recipe is ideal for meal prepping. You can marinate several chicken breasts at once, then cook them in batches to enjoy throughout the week. This not only saves time but also ensures you have a healthy, flavorful option ready to go whenever hunger strikes.
Once cooked, the chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners. Just reheat and serve with your favorite sides for a delicious meal in minutes.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to use fresh herbs for the best flavor!
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Marinade
In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
Cook the Chicken
Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Serve
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional lemon slices and herbs if desired.
Enjoy your delicious Chicken Breast with Lemon and Herbs!
Nutritional Benefits
Chicken breast is known for being a lean source of protein, making it a great choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. This recipe provides a hearty serving of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth, while keeping calories in check. The inclusion of lemon not only adds flavor but also boosts vitamin C content, which is vital for immune function.
Moreover, the herbs used in this dish are packed with antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties. By incorporating herbs like oregano and thyme, you not only enhance the taste but also add nutritional benefits that can support overall health.
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover chicken, it's important to store it properly to maintain its freshness. Allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days, or frozen for longer shelf life. Just be sure to label the container with the date for easy reference.
When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat the chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop. Adding a splash of broth or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can help restore some moisture and flavor, making the chicken just as enjoyable as when it was freshly cooked.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use skin-on chicken breasts?
Yes, skin-on chicken breasts will add extra flavor and moisture to the dish.
→ How long can I marinate the chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for 30 minutes to 2 hours for the best flavor.
→ What can I serve with this dish?
This chicken pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad.
→ Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for about 25-30 minutes.
Chicken Breast with Lemon and Herbs
A delightful dish featuring tender chicken breast infused with zesty lemon and aromatic herbs.
Created by: Vanessa Doyle
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional lemon slices and herbs if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 5g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 50g