Chicken Breast with Lemon and Herbs

Name: Chicken Breast with Lemon and Herbs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 lemons (zested and juiced); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (chopped); 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped); Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

This Chicken Breast with Lemon and Herbs recipe is a delightful dish that brings together the zesty flavor of lemon and the fragrant aroma of fresh herbs, making it a perfect choice for a healthy meal.

Created by

Vanessa Doyle

Last updated on 2025-12-24T16:36:39.132Z

This recipe has been crafted to provide a quick yet flavorful meal option. The combination of lemon and herbs creates a refreshing taste that brightens up the chicken breast, making it a family favorite.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Zesty lemon flavor that enhances the chicken's natural taste
Fresh herbs add a delightful aroma and color
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners
Healthy and low in calories, great for a balanced diet

      

The Perfect Weeknight Meal

In today's fast-paced world, finding a wholesome meal that can be prepared quickly is essential. This Chicken Breast with Lemon and Herbs recipe fits the bill perfectly. With minimal preparation and cooking time, you can have a delicious, healthy dinner on the table in under an hour. The bright flavors of lemon and fresh herbs not only make this dish appetizing but also bring a sense of freshness to your weeknight meals.

Moreover, the simplicity of the recipe makes it adaptable. Whether you’re cooking for one or preparing a meal for the entire family, you can easily scale the ingredients. This versatility ensures that you can enjoy this dish any day of the week without feeling repetitive.

Health Benefits of Chicken and Herbs

Chicken breast is a lean protein that is low in fat and high in essential nutrients, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. It provides the energy needed for daily activities while supporting muscle health. Coupled with the zesty lemon, which is rich in vitamin C, this dish not only tastes amazing but also boosts your immune system.

The fresh herbs used in this recipe, such as thyme and parsley, are packed with antioxidants and nutrients. Thyme has antimicrobial properties and can improve digestion, while parsley adds a burst of flavor and is a great source of vitamins A, C, and K. Together, they enhance the nutritional profile of the dish, making it a smart choice for health-conscious eaters.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing this Chicken Breast with Lemon and Herbs with a colorful side salad or roasted vegetables. A mix of seasonal greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette will complement the zesty flavors of the chicken perfectly. Alternatively, serving it alongside quinoa or brown rice can add a wholesome grain component to your meal.

For a complete Mediterranean experience, you might also want to add a side of tzatziki sauce. This yogurt-based dip, flavored with cucumber and garlic, pairs wonderfully with the lemony chicken, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Whether you choose to keep it simple or go all out with sides, this dish is sure to impress.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this delicious chicken dish:

Ingredients

4 boneless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 lemons (zested and juiced)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tablespoon fresh thyme (chopped)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
Salt and pepper to taste

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your chicken:

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, thyme, and parsley. Mix well.

Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it's evenly coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Preheat the grill or a skillet over medium heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and season with salt and pepper. Grill or cook in the skillet for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.

Serve

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm with a side of vegetables or salad.

Enjoy your meal with a refreshing side dish!

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover chicken, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days. This makes it great for meal prep, as you can easily incorporate the leftover chicken into salads, wraps, or grain bowls throughout the week.

To reheat, simply place the chicken in the microwave for a minute or two, or heat it in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. This ensures that you maintain the juicy texture of the chicken while enjoying the bright flavors of the marinade.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different herbs to suit your taste. Rosemary, basil, or even oregano can add unique flavors to the dish. You can also try adding a touch of heat by including red pepper flakes in the marinade for a spicy kick.

For a more robust flavor, consider marinating the chicken overnight. This allows the chicken to absorb the flavors of the lemon and herbs even more deeply, resulting in an incredibly flavorful meal.

Perfect Pairings

When it comes to wine pairings, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio complements the citrusy notes of the chicken beautifully. These wines enhance the dining experience by bringing out the flavors of the dish without overpowering them.

If you're looking for a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a slice of lemon or a refreshing herbal iced tea can be perfect. These beverages not only cleanse the palate but also keep the meal light and refreshing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, just ensure they are fully thawed before marinating and cooking.

→ What herbs can I substitute?

You can use dried herbs like oregano or basil if fresh herbs are not available.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.

→ Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?

Absolutely! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.