Lemon Herb Chicken: A Zesty and Flavorful Dish

Lemon Herb Chicken: A Zesty and Flavorful Dish

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Lemon Herb Chicken is a versatile and delicious dish that combines the tanginess of lemon with the earthy aroma of fresh herbs. This simple yet elegant recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. In this article, we’ll explore the ingredients, step-by-step preparation, tips for perfect results, and variations to suit your taste.

Why Lemon Herb Chicken?

Lemon Herb Chicken is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons:

  1. Simple Ingredients: Most of the ingredients are pantry staples.
  2. Healthy and Light: The dish is low in fat and rich in protein.
  3. Customizable: You can adapt the herbs and spices to your preference.
  4. Quick to Prepare: It takes less than an hour to make.

Ingredients for Lemon Herb Chicken

For the Marinade:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • Juice and zest of 2 lemons
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For Cooking:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • Lemon slices for garnish
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
Lemon Herb Chicken: A Zesty and Flavorful Dish
Lemon Herb Chicken: A Zesty and Flavorful Dish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and coat them evenly with the marinade.
  3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

  1. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off.
  3. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F).

Step 3: Garnish and Serve

  1. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes.
  2. Garnish with lemon slices and fresh parsley.
  3. Serve hot with your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Tips for Perfect Lemon Herb Chicken

  1. Pound the Chicken: If the breasts are uneven in thickness, pound them to ensure even cooking.
  2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to achieve a perfect sear.
  3. Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs add more flavor than dried ones.
  4. Avoid Overcooking: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken doesn’t dry out.

Variations of Lemon Herb Chicken

  1. Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Grill the marinated chicken for a smoky flavor.
  2. Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs: Use bone-in chicken thighs for juicier meat.
  3. Creamy Lemon Herb Chicken: Add a splash of heavy cream to the skillet after cooking the chicken for a rich sauce.
  4. Spicy Lemon Herb Chicken: Add red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 280
  • Protein: 35g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 3g
  • Fiber: 1g

Conclusion

Lemon Herb Chicken is a flavorful and healthy dish that is easy to make and sure to impress. With its vibrant citrus flavor and aromatic herbs, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves simple yet delicious meals. Whether you serve it for a family dinner or a special occasion, Lemon Herb Chicken is guaranteed to be a hit. Enjoy!