Lemon-Oregano Chicken Breast
Tender chicken breasts marinated in a bright mix of lemon, garlic, and oregano, then pan-seared to a perfect golden brown. A healthy and quick Mediterranean-inspired main course ready in under 30 minutes.
For 4 servings
Prepare the marinade.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, juice and zest of one lemon, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
TIPUsing fresh lemon juice and zest provides a much brighter flavor than bottled juice.Marinate the chicken.
- Place the chicken breasts in the bowl with the marinade.
- Turn each piece to ensure it's fully coated.
- Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature.
TIPFor more flavor, you can marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours.Sear the chicken.
Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the marinated chicken breasts in the pan, leaving some space between them.
TIPDon't overcrowd the pan, as it will steam the chicken instead of searing it. Cook in batches if necessary.Cook until golden and cooked through.
Cook for 6-8 minutes on the first side without moving it, until a golden-brown crust forms. Flip and cook for another 6-8 minutes on the other side. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Rest the chicken before slicing.
Transfer the cooked chicken to a clean cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and tender.
Slice and serve.
Slice the chicken against the grain and serve immediately with your favorite sides.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For even cooking, you can gently pound the thicker end of the chicken breasts to a more uniform thickness.
- 2Ensure your pan is properly preheated before adding the chicken to get a beautiful sear.
- 3Don't discard the marinade; you can pour any remaining marinade over the chicken as it cooks for extra flavor.
- 4This chicken is great for meal prep. Cook a batch and store it in the fridge for salads and wraps throughout the week.
Adapt it for your goals.
Healthy
Reduce the olive oil to 2 tablespoons and bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
quickQuick
Cut the chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces before marinating. It will cook much faster, in about 5-7 minutes total.
high proteinHigh protein
Increase the serving size to 200g of chicken per person to boost the protein content of your meal.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Reduce the amount of garlic and lemon zest for a milder flavor. Serve with a simple yogurt dip.
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 full.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Made with olive oil, this dish provides monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce bad cholesterol levels and lower your risk of heart disease.
Rich in Vitamin C
The fresh lemon juice adds a significant amount of Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that helps boost the immune system and supports skin health.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is a very healthy dish. Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, and olive oil provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. It's naturally low in carbohydrates and sugar.