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Lemon Thyme Marinated Chicken Breast

This dish features chicken breasts marinated in a vibrant blend of lemon juice, garlic, and thyme, then seared and baked to tender perfection. The final result is juicy, flavorful chicken with a golden crust and bright, herbaceous notes, ideal for a quick yet impressive meal.
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Prep Time 40 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces chicken breasts preferably even thickness
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice freshly squeezed preferred
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
  • to taste salt & pepper adjust as preferred
  • Optional chili flakes or paprika for extra heat or smoky flavor

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Oven
  • Meat thermometer
  • Tongs

Method
 

  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, helping them sear evenly.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped thyme, and olive oil to create a bright, fragrant marinade.
  3. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or zip-top bag and pour the marinade over, ensuring each piece is well coated. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
  4. Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F). This ensures the chicken finishes cooking evenly after searing.
  5. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat until hot, then add a splash of olive oil. Once shimmering, carefully place the chicken breasts into the skillet, searing for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and fragrant.
  6. Transfer the skillet with the chicken into the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 75°C (165°F).
  7. Remove the skillet from the oven, transfer the chicken to a plate, and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat for maximum tenderness.
  8. Slice the rested chicken breasts and serve garnished with extra lemon wedges and fresh thyme, if desired.

Notes

For extra flavor, sprinkle chili flakes or paprika before serving. Adjust marinating time for a more intense lemon-herb taste.