Go Back

Citrus-Herb Chicken Breast

This dish features tender chicken breasts infused with bright lemon zest, fresh herbs, and garlic, cooked through searing and roasting for a juicy, flavorful result. The final appearance is golden-brown on the outside with moist, succulent meat inside, topped with a squeeze of lemon and aromatic herbs. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for a lively weeknight dinner or weekend treat.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: International
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces chicken breasts boneless, skinless
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest from organic lemon
  • 2 tbsp olive oil good quality
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 tsp fresh rosemary chopped
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • optional pinch red pepper flakes for a spicy kick

Equipment

  • Oven-proof skillet
  • Meat thermometer
  • Tongs
  • Zester or microplane

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) and pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, lemon zest, minced garlic, and chopped herbs to create a fragrant marinade.
  3. Rub the herb mixture all over the chicken breasts, making sure to coat each piece evenly.
  4. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat until it’s hot and slightly shimmering, then add the chicken breasts.
  5. Sear the chicken for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crispy on the outside, listening for a gentle sizzle.
  6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast the chicken for 15-20 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).
  7. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness and avoid overcooking.
  8. Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes; this helps keep it juicy and tender.
  9. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken, then sprinkle with chopped parsley and additional herbs if desired.
  10. Slice and serve immediately, enjoying the bright citrus flavors and aromatic herbs that make this dish pop.

Notes

For extra brightness, add a little more lemon zest or a splash of extra lemon juice before serving. Adjust herb quantities based on your taste preferences. If you prefer spicier flavor, sprinkle red pepper flakes during the rubbing step.