Are you craving a delicious, healthy, and surprisingly easy dinner? Look no further! This recipe takes inspiration from Jamie Oliver's commitment to fresh ingredients and simple cooking techniques, resulting in succulent lemon herb roasted chicken breasts that are perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. It's one of those quick dinner ideas that's both impressive and satisfying, making it a staple in our homemade cooking repertoire. Get ready to elevate your chicken game!
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs total)
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 4 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely.
Step 2: Season and Marinate (Optional but Recommended)
In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and generously rub the garlic-herb mixture all over them. For extra flavor, let them marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to an hour in the refrigerator).
Step 3: Add the Lemon and Herbs
Tuck the lemon slices and sprigs of rosemary and thyme under and around the chicken breasts in the baking dish. This infuses the chicken with bright citrusy and herbaceous flavors.
Step 4: Roast the Chicken
Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked through. Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken breast. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken Breasts:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure there's enough space between the chicken breasts for even cooking. If necessary, use two baking dishes.
- Check for doneness: Using a meat thermometer is the most accurate way to ensure your chicken is cooked through and safe to eat.
- Rest is key: Allowing the chicken to rest prevents it from becoming dry and tough.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic-herb mixture for a spicy kick.
- Mediterranean Chicken: Substitute the rosemary and thyme with oregano and basil, and add some chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the baking dish.
- Creamy Lemon Sauce: After roasting, whisk together some heavy cream, lemon juice, and a little bit of the pan juices for a delicious sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
This recipe provides a healthy and delicious meal. Nutritional information will vary slightly based on the specific ingredients used, but a general estimate per serving (assuming two servings) is approximately:
- Calories: 250-300
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 2-3g
This easy recipe is perfect for anyone looking for healthy meals and delicious dishes. It's a great addition to your collection of best recipes, and a fantastic example of how simple homemade cooking can be both satisfying and flavorful. Enjoy!