Lemon-Herb Chicken Breast: Meal Prep Game Changer

September 12, 2023

by fitnessbrand.net

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Take your dinner routine to new heights with our recipe for Lemon-Herb Chicken Breast.

This dish is a blend of flavors and nutrition offering both taste and health benefits. With the zest of lemon and the aromatic touch of herbs like oregano, thyme, and basil our recipe elevates the chicken breast into a culinary masterpiece.

It’s perfect for those who prioritize their well being without compromising on flavor.

Our Baked Chicken Breast with Lemon and Herbs is a sophisticated addition to your weekly menu. Not only does it provide protein but its also low in calories and rich in nutrients allowing you to savor every bite guilt free.

Let us guide you through the steps to achieve juicy and incredibly flavorful chicken – it’s easier than you may think!

Baked Chicken Breast, with Lemon and Herbs Recipe

Ingredients

4 chicken breasts, skinless and boneless
2 tablespoons of olive oil
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 teaspoon of dried
1 teaspoon of dried thyme
1 teaspoon of dried basil

Optional:

Half a teaspoon of paprika
Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
Fresh herbs like parsley or dill for garnish

Lemon-Herb Chicken Breast Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare the chicken breasts by patting them dry with paper towels to create a crust. Arrange them in a baking dish.

3. In a bowl combine the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic oregano, thyme, basil, paprika (if desired) salt and pepper to create the marinade.

4. Pour the marinade over the chicken breasts to ensure they are evenly coated. Let them marinate at room temperature for around 15 minutes or refrigerate for enhanced flavor for about 1 to 2 hours.

5. Place the chicken breasts in the oven and bake until they reach an internal temperature of, around 165°F (74°C).

Enjoy your Lemon-Herb Chicken Breast! It usually takes around 25 to 30 minutes depending on how thick the chicken breast.

6. When they’re fully cooked take them out of the oven. Let them rest for a minutes before serving. You can add a garnish of herbs, like parsley or dill to give it a touch.

Enjoy your chicken breast, with lemon and herbs!

FAQS

What does lemon juice do to chicken?

Lemon juice serves as both a tenderizer and a flavor enhancer for chicken. It adds a refreshing citrusy taste while also breaking down proteins to make the meat more tender.

Should you put lemon on chicken before or after cooking?

It is common to apply lemon as a marinade before cooking chicken as it helps flavor and tenderize the meat. However you can also add a squeeze of lemon juice after cooking to bring out a burst of freshness.

Why put a lemon in a chicken?

By placing a lemon inside the cavity of a chicken it adds moisture and imparts flavors during the cooking process enhancing the taste.

What is the secret to moist chicken breast?

To ensure moist chicken breast it is important to cook it with appropriate cooking time and techniques such as brining or marinating. Additionally avoiding overcooking is essential.

Is it better to bake chicken at 350 or 400?

For cooking and retained moisture baking chicken at 350°F is generally preferred. However if you desire a shorter cooking time and want a golden exterior you can opt for 400°F instead.

What is the best way to cook chicken breast without drying it out?

To prevent dryness when preparing chicken breast it is recommended to cook it at moderate temperatures until its done. Methods like baking, poaching or grilling are options. Allowing the cooked meat to rest, before slicing also helps in retaining its juiciness.

Resources

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7929256/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7904691/