Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Lemon Herb Marinade
- ⅓ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 large lemons)
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ cup olive oil
Optional Additions
- 1 tablespoon honey (for sweetness)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (for heat)
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme leaves, parsley, dried oregano, and olive oil. Season the mixture with salt and black pepper, and add honey and red pepper flakes if desired.
- Marinate the chicken: Coat the chicken breasts thoroughly with the lemon herb marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours, allowing the flavors to infuse into the meat.
- Heat the skillet and cook: Warm a large 10–12 inch skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Remove chicken from marinade, then sear the chicken breasts in the skillet for 6 to 7 minutes on each side. During cooking, baste the chicken occasionally with the remaining marinade to keep it moist and flavorful.
- Check doneness: Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Rest the chicken: Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the chicken to a plate. Tent with foil and let rest for 5 minutes to redistribute juices for maximum juiciness.
- Serve: Slice the rested chicken breasts and serve with your favorite sides such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken longer (up to 4 hours) intensifies the flavor.
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor impact, but dried herbs can be substituted if necessary.
- Be sure to let the chicken rest before slicing to keep it tender and juicy.
- Adding honey balances the tartness of the lemon and can be adjusted to taste.
- Red pepper flakes add a mild heat but can be omitted for a milder dish.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer for perfectly cooked chicken.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat