The Best Yum Recipes โ Easy Meals with Big Flavor
๐ Juicy Garlic Herb Chicken Breast Recipe for Dinner
Discover a restaurant-quality chicken breast recipe thatโs juicy, flavorful, and ready in less than 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights and healthy meal prep!
Introduction
Chicken breast is one of the most versatile ingredients in any kitchen. While many people avoid it because it sometimes turns out dry or bland, this Juicy Garlic Herb Chicken Breast recipe changes the game. With just a few simple ingredientsโolive oil, garlic, herbs, and a splash of lemonโyouโll create a dish that is tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. Even better, itโs ready in under 30 minutes, making it a lifesaver for busy evenings.
Whether youโre looking for a healthy protein to pair with vegetables, something kid-friendly, or a quick recipe to impress guests, this chicken breast dinner ticks all the boxes.
Why Youโll Love This Recipe
- โ Quick & Easy: Ready in less than 30 minutes.
- โ Healthy: High in protein, low in carbs, and made with wholesome ingredients.
- โ Versatile: Can be paired with rice, pasta, salads, or roasted vegetables.
- โ Meal Prep Friendly: Stores well for the week without losing flavor.
Ingredients (Serves 2โ3)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or fresh if available)
- ยฝ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Juice of ยฝ lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better and ensures a nice golden sear. For faster cooking and juicier results, slice each chicken breast horizontally into thinner cutlets.
- Step 2: Season
- In a bowl, mix together olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Rub this mixture generously over the chicken, making sure every side is coated.
- Step 3: Cook
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook for 4โ5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 74ยฐC (165ยฐF).
- Step 4: Add Freshness
- Squeeze lemon juice over the chicken while itโs still hot. This adds brightness and enhances the garlic-herb flavor.
- Step 5: Garnish & Serve
- Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top before serving for a vibrant finish
Serving Suggestions ๐ด
This juicy chicken pairs beautifully with:
- Roasted or grilled vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, carrots).
- Creamy mashed potatoes or baked sweet potatoes.
- A light garden salad with vinaigrette.
- Fluffy steamed rice or quinoa.
- Pasta tossed with olive oil and herbs.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: ~280 kcal
- Protein: 36g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
Tips & Variations
๐ Cooking Tips
- Donโt overcrowd the panโcook in batches if necessary.
- Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.
- Let the chicken rest for 3 minutes before slicing to lock in juices.
๐ฟ Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the seasoning.
- Herb Upgrade: Swap oregano for thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning.
- Creamy Twist: Finish cooking with a splash of cream or a spoon of butter for a richer sauce.
- Grilled Option: This recipe works perfectly on an outdoor grill for a smoky flavor.
Storage & Meal Prep
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of water to prevent dryness.
- Meal Prep: Cook several chicken breasts at once and portion with sides like rice or veggies for easy grab-and-go lunches.
FAQs โ Chicken Breast Recipes for Dinner
Q1: How do I keep chicken breast from drying out?
A: Use medium heat and avoid overcooking. Let the chicken rest for 3 minutes after cooking to lock in juices.
Q2: Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
A: Absolutely! Fresh oregano, parsley, or thyme will enhance the flavor even more.
Q3: Can I bake this recipe instead of pan-frying?
A: Yes! Bake at 200ยฐC (400ยฐF) for 18โ20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165ยฐF.
Q4: Whatโs the best way to store leftovers?
A: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out.
Q5: Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
A: Yes, it stores well and can be served with different sides throughout the week.
Final Tip
This Juicy Garlic Herb Chicken Breast recipe is proof that healthy meals donโt have to be boring or time-consuming. With minimal ingredients, you get tender, flavorful chicken that works for quick weeknight dinners, healthy lunches, or even special occasions. Whether you pan-fry, grill, or bake, this versatile recipe will become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. Try it once, and youโll never go back to dry, bland chicken again !
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