15-Minute Lemon Herb Chicken Dinner - Easy Weeknight Meal
Need a delicious and satisfying dinner on the table fast? This 15-Minute Lemon Herb Chicken is the answer! Packed with flavor, using simple ingredients, and requiring minimal effort, this recipe is a weeknight lifesaver. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, you can easily whip up this dish. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (from about 1 lemon)
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian herb blend (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely.
- Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine the lemon juice, Italian herb blend, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Rest & Serve: Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
- Garnish (Optional): Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
Tips & Variations
- Faster Cooking: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly and quickly.
- Vegetables: Add a side of steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, or a simple salad for a complete meal.
- Citrus Boost: Add a little lemon zest to the herb mixture for extra lemon flavor.
- Herb Alternatives: Feel free to experiment with different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or dill.
- Make it a Sheet Pan Meal: Toss chicken and vegetables on a sheet pan, drizzle with the lemon herb mixture, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 30 minutes.
Enjoy Your Delicious & Easy Dinner!
This 15-Minute Lemon Herb Chicken is a fantastic option for those busy weeknights when you want a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It's simple, flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser. Bon appétit!
