Lemon Herb Chicken Breast
A simple, juicy chicken breast marinated in a bright mix of lemon, garlic, and Mediterranean herbs. Perfectly grilled or pan-seared, it's a healthy and flavorful main course ready in under 30 minutes.
For 4 servings
Prepare the chicken.
Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Gently pound them with a meat mallet or rolling pin to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This helps them cook evenly.
TIPEven thickness is the secret to juicy, perfectly cooked chicken that isn't dry on the edges.Make the lemon-herb marinade.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, the zest and juice of one lemon, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.
Marinate the chicken.
Add the pounded chicken breasts to the bowl with the marinade. Turn to coat each piece thoroughly. Let it marinate at room temperature for at least 15 minutes.
TIPFor more flavor, you can marinate it in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours. Don't marinate for longer, as the lemon juice can start to break down the chicken texture.Grill the chicken.
- Preheat a grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Place the chicken on the hot grill, discarding any excess marinade.
- Cook for 6-7 minutes on the first side, until grill marks appear and it releases easily from the grates.
- Flip and cook for another 6-7 minutes on the other side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
TIPAvoid pressing down on the chicken while it cooks, as this squeezes out the juices.Rest the chicken before serving.
Transfer the cooked chicken to a clean cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender result.
Garnish and serve.
Slice the chicken against the grain if desired. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best flavor, use freshly squeezed lemon juice, not the bottled kind.
- 2A meat thermometer is the most reliable way to check for doneness without overcooking the chicken.
- 3If you don't have a grill, you can pan-sear the chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat for the same amount of time.
- 4This chicken is great for meal prep. Cook a batch and store it in the fridge for salads, wraps, or quick dinners throughout the week.
Adapt it for your goals.
Quick
If you're short on time, skip the 15-minute marination. Just rub the marinade mixture all over the chicken and cook immediately.
healthyHealthy
To reduce fat content slightly, you can reduce the olive oil to 2 tablespoons and add 2 tablespoons of water or lemon juice to the marinade for volume.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Reduce the amount of garlic by half and serve the chicken sliced into strips with a side of plain yogurt or a mild dip.
low carbLow carb
This recipe is naturally low-carb and keto-friendly. Serve it with a large green salad, cauliflower rice, or steamed asparagus to keep the meal low in carbohydrates.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Lean Protein
Chicken breast is a high-quality lean protein that is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle mass, and keeping you feeling full.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Made with olive oil, this dish provides monounsaturated fats, which are known to support cardiovascular health by helping to reduce bad cholesterol levels.
Rich in Vitamin C
The fresh lemon juice is a great source of Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports the immune system and skin health.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is very healthy. It's a fantastic source of lean protein, cooked with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats from olive oil, and is low in carbohydrates and saturated fat.