Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a healthy, flavorful meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Then look no further! This Herbs de Provence Chicken recipe is your answer. It's a simple yet elegant dish bursting with the aromatic essence of the Mediterranean, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful weekend meal. Get ready to transport your taste buds to sun-drenched shores with this easy, delicious recipe.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Herbs de Provence (a blend of thyme, rosemary, lavender, marjoram, oregano, and basil)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, Herbs de Provence, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Marinate (Optional but Recommended)
For best results, marinate the chicken in the herb mixture for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken, resulting in a more intensely flavorful dish. If you're short on time, you can skip this step, but marinating is highly recommended.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken breasts and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown.
Step 4: Simmer to Perfection
Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, add the lemon slices, and reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve immediately, drizzled with the pan juices. This healthy and delicious meal pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables, couscous, or a simple green salad.
Cooking Tips for the Best Herbs de Provence Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Sear the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning.
- Use fresh herbs: If you have fresh thyme, rosemary, and oregano on hand, feel free to substitute them for a portion of the Herbs de Provence blend for an even more vibrant flavor.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to adjust the salt and pepper to your preference.
- Add vegetables: Enhance this dish by adding chopped onions, bell peppers, or zucchini to the skillet along with the chicken.
Variations:
- Creamy Herbs de Provence Chicken: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche during the last few minutes of simmering for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken: Roast the chicken in the oven instead of pan-searing it for a different texture and flavor profile.
- Spicy Herbs de Provence Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the herb mixture for a little kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 30g
- Fat: Approximately 10g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5g
This simple yet flavorful Herbs de Provence Chicken recipe is a great addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's a quick dinner idea that's perfect for busy weeknights and special occasions alike. Enjoy the deliciousness of homemade cooking with this best recipe!