Have you ever craved a dish that is both light and flavorful, yet still satisfying to your taste buds? Look no further than Lemon and Herb Chicken – a classic recipe that has stood the test of time. This dish has its roots in Mediterranean cuisine, known for its delicious and fresh flavors.

Dating back to ancient times, Lemon and Herb Chicken has been a staple in many Mediterranean households. The combination of tangy lemon and fragrant herbs creates a harmonious flavor profile that is both comforting and refreshing. This dish is versatile, as it can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of sides.

Despite its rich history, Lemon and Herb Chicken is surprisingly easy to make. The recipe requires simple ingredients that are likely already in your pantry, making it a convenient choice for a weeknight meal. The preparation is straightforward, with the chicken marinated in a mixture of lemon juice, herbs, and spices before being cooked to perfection.

Ingredients

Chicken Breasts: Lean and protein-packed meat that serves as the base of this dish. Chicken breasts can be easily seasoned and cooked to perfection, making them a versatile ingredient in many recipes.

Lemons: Bright and citrusy fruit that adds a refreshing flavor to the chicken. The acidity of the lemons helps to tenderize the meat and enhance the overall taste of the dish.

Garlic: A pungent and aromatic ingredient that adds depth of flavor to the chicken. When minced and sautéed, garlic releases a rich and savory taste that complements the herbs and spices in this dish.

Olive Oil: A heart-healthy oil that is used for marinating the chicken and searing it to a crispy golden-brown finish. Olive oil also adds richness and moisture to the meat, ensuring it stays juicy and delicious.

Dried Thyme: A savory herb with earthy undertones that pairs well with chicken. Thyme adds a subtle yet distinct flavor to the dish, enhancing the overall aroma and taste of the seasoned chicken.

Dried Rosemary: A fragrant herb with a pine-like aroma that adds a warm and savory flavor to the chicken. Rosemary complements the other herbs and spices in this recipe, creating a well-rounded and delicious dish.

Dried Oregano: A bold herb with a slightly bitter taste that adds a robust flavor to the chicken. Oregano enhances the overall seasoning of the dish, providing a zesty and aromatic profile to the marinated meat.

Salt: A basic seasoning that helps to enhance the natural flavors of the chicken. Salt also helps to tenderize the meat and balance out the other spices, ensuring a well-seasoned and delicious dish.

Black Pepper: A versatile spice that adds a kick of heat and depth of flavor to the chicken. Black pepper complements the herbs and spices in this recipe, adding a touch of warmth and complexity to the marinade.

Fresh Parsley: A vibrant herb that adds a pop of color and freshness to the finished dish. Parsley is used as a garnish to add a burst of flavor and visual appeal to the Lemon and Herb Chicken, making it a visually stunning and delicious meal.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For serving suggestions, you can pair this flavorful Lemon and Herb Chicken with a side of roasted vegetables, such as carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers. It also goes well with a fresh salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. You can also serve it alongside some fluffy quinoa or couscous for a hearty meal.

• For a variation, you can use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for a juicier and more flavorful result. The cooking time may vary, so make sure to adjust accordingly.
• To add a Mediterranean twist to this dish, consider serving the Lemon and Herb Chicken with some tzatziki sauce and warm pita bread. You can also top it with crumbled feta cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
• If you prefer a spicy kick, you can add some red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade. This will give the dish a subtle heat that complements the citrusy flavors of the lemon and herbs.
• For a richer sauce, you can deglaze the pan with some white wine or chicken broth after cooking the chicken. This will create a delicious sauce that can be drizzled over the chicken before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is lemon and herb chicken?

Lemon and herb chicken is a flavorful dish made with marinated chicken breast that is cooked with a mixture of fresh herbs, lemon juice, and olive oil.

How do you make lemon and herb chicken?

To make lemon and herb chicken, start by marinating chicken breasts in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and herbs such as rosemary, thyme, and parsley. Then, grill or bake the chicken until fully cooked.

What herbs go well with lemon and herb chicken?

Herbs that pair well with lemon and herb chicken include rosemary, thyme, parsley, oregano, and basil. You can also experiment with different combinations to find your favorite flavor profile.

Is lemon and herb chicken healthy?

Lemon and herb chicken is a healthy option as it is high in protein, low in fat, and packed with flavor from fresh herbs and citrus. It is a great choice for a nutritious and delicious meal.

Can I make lemon and herb chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook it. This allows the flavors to meld together and creates a more flavorful dish.

Check Out These Other Recipes

Here are some more recipes for you to enjoy! If you my recipes don’t forget to rate and leave a comment.

• Black Pepper Chicken
• White Chicken Chilli
• Peanut Butter Chicken
• Chicken Panang
• Honey Garlic Chicken

If you have any recipe suggestions, please do not hesitate to ask me. A great way to stay in contact with me is through Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. Don’t forget to tag me @CookwithNabeela in your recipe photos!

Lemon & Herb Chicken

by Nabeela Kauser

This delicious chicken dish combines zesty lemon and fragrant herbs for a burst of fresh flavor. Perfect for a light and healthy meal, it's quick to prepare and packed with aromatic, natural ingredients that will tantalize your taste buds.

5 from 1 vote

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine Western

Servings 4

Calories 344 kcal

Cook ModePrevent your screen from going dark

Ingredients

• ▢ 4 Chicken Breasts skinless and boneless
• ▢ 2 Lemons juiced and zested
• ▢ 4 Garlic Cloves minced
• ▢ 2 tbsp Olive Oil
• ▢ 2 tsp Dried Thyme
• ▢ 2 tsp Dried Rosemary
• ▢ 1 tsp Dried Oregano
• ▢ 1 tsp Salt to taste
• ▢ 1 tsp Black Pepper to taste
• ▢ Parsley chopped, for garnish

Instructions

• In a bowl, combine the lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, olive oil, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and dried oregano.
• Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper, then place them in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag.
• Pour the lemon and herb marinade over the chicken breasts, making sure they are evenly coated. Cover or seal the dish/bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
• Preheat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan/ Gas mark 6).
• Remove the marinated chicken breasts from the fridge and let them come to room temperature for about 10 minutes.
• Place the chicken breasts on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each piece.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear.
• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

Ensure the chicken breasts are of similar thickness for even cooking.

You can adjust the amount of herbs and lemon juice according to your taste preferences.

Serve the lemon and herb chicken with your choice of side dishes, such as roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.

Nutritional facts:

The provision of nutritional information is done so merely as a courtesy and should not be taken as a guarantee.

Nutrition

Calories: 344kcalCarbohydrates: 7gProtein: 49gFat: 13gSaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0.03gCholesterol: 145mgSodium: 846mgPotassium: 940mgFibre: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 112IUVitamin C: 33mgVitamin D: 0.2µgCalcium: 51mgIron: 2mg

Keyword Chicken, Cooking, Dinner, Food, Lemon Herb Chicken, Recipe

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