Chicken With Lemon And Herbs
Juicy chicken breasts infused with fresh herbs, lemon slices, and butter, baked to perfection. A bright, flavorful dish perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix chopped mint, dill, parsley, and minced garlic in a small bowl.
- Gently flatten chicken breasts with your hand against the table.
- Arrange chicken on foil-lined baking sheet; season with salt and pepper.
- Sprinkle herb and garlic mixture over the chicken breasts.
- Slice lemons and arrange 2 or 3 slices over each chicken breast.
- Dot each with butter and seal the foil packets.
- Place packets on a baking sheet and bake in the middle of the oven for 30 minutes.
- Transfer to plates and ask guests to open the packets at the table.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken in the herb and garlic mixture for a few hours or overnight. If you don't have fresh herbs, dried herbs can be used, but reduce the amount to about one-third. For added zest, consider using lime instead of lemon. To enhance the dish, serve with a side of Rice Pilav or Mediterranean recipes that complement the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken with a fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. It goes wonderfully with sides like Fragrant Baked Potatoes, which complement the lemony flavor. For a refreshing drink, consider serving iced tea or a light white wine that pairs beautifully with the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be cautious not to overcook, as it may become dry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken With Lemon And Herbs contains roughly 266 calories, with 15g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (50% of the Daily Value) and protein (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bone-in chicken breasts instead of boneless?
Yes, bone-in chicken breasts can be used. Just increase the cooking time to ensure they are thoroughly cooked, typically an additional 10-15 minutes. Make sure to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
What other herbs can I use in this recipe?
In addition to mint, dill, and parsley, you can experiment with other herbs like thyme, oregano, or basil. Each will impart a unique flavor to the chicken. Just remember to adjust the quantities to taste, especially if using stronger herbs like rosemary.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and herb mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just assemble the foil packets when you're ready to cook. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining guests, allowing you to enjoy more time with them.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).