Are you looking for quick dinner ideas that are both delicious and compliant with the Whole30 diet? Look no further! This recipe delivers juicy, flavorful chicken breasts that are perfect for a healthy weeknight meal. Forget bland, boring chicken – this recipe is packed with fresh herbs and zesty lemon, making it a satisfying and exciting addition to your Whole30 journey. It's a simple recipe, ideal for homemade cooking, even for beginners. This is one of the best recipes for anyone wanting to eat healthy without sacrificing taste!
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs total)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Get started:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Prepare the chicken:
- Place the chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
Cook the chicken:
- Pour the mixture evenly over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked perfectly.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. This delicious chicken breast is amazing on its own, or you can serve it with your favorite Whole30-compliant sides, such as roasted vegetables or a simple salad.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet: This ensures even cooking. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
- Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through to avoid undercooked chicken.
- Adjust seasonings: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to your liking. Experiment with different combinations! Red pepper flakes would add a nice kick.
- Marinate for extra flavor: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken in the lemon-herb mixture for at least 30 minutes before baking.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Roast alongside your favorite Whole30-friendly vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or bell peppers. Simply toss them with olive oil and your preferred seasonings before adding them to the baking sheet with the chicken.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Different herbs: Experiment with other herbs like thyme, rosemary, or a blend of Italian herbs.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 1-2g
This recipe offers a healthy and delicious way to enjoy chicken breast while following the Whole30 guidelines. It's easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy this simple yet flavorful dish, and remember to adjust it to your taste preferences for a truly personalized experience!