Description
Golden Lemon Herb Chicken brings Mediterranean flavors dancing across your plate with simple ingredients and quick preparation. Home cooks can savor this delightful meal that combines zesty citrus notes and fragrant herbs in one satisfying dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Spices and Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Vegetables and Additional Ingredients:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Cooking Fats:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
Instructions
- Prepare the poultry by thoroughly patting it dry, then generously coat both surfaces with a robust blend of aromatic seasonings, creating a flavorful exterior that will caramelize beautifully during cooking.
- Transform a heavy-bottomed skillet into a searing station by heating olive oil until it shimmers with intense heat. Carefully place the seasoned chicken into the pan, allowing each side to develop a golden-brown crust through precise 5-6 minute intervals.
- Without cleaning the skillet, introduce butter to capture the existing flavor remnants, quickly sautéing minced garlic and aromatic Italian herbs until their fragrance permeates the kitchen. Swiftly incorporate colorful vegetable medley – vibrant cherry tomatoes, tender zucchini, and crisp bell peppers – cooking until they soften and release their natural sweetness.
- Reunite the expertly seared chicken with the vegetable ensemble, introducing remaining butter, bright lemon juice, and optional fiery red pepper flakes. Allow the ingredients to meld and the chicken to reach perfect internal temperature, ensuring succulent, safe protein.
- Elevate the dish’s visual and flavor profile by generously scattering freshly chopped parsley across the surface. Present the meal alongside complementary starches like fluffy rice, al dente pasta, or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete, restaurant-quality dinner experience.
Notes
- Maximize flavor by generously patting chicken dry, ensuring a perfect golden-brown sear that locks in delicious seasonings.
- Customize spice levels by adjusting red pepper flakes or swapping with smoked paprika for a milder, smoky kick.
- Create a low-carb version by replacing starchy sides with cauliflower rice or roasted vegetables, keeping the meal light and nutritious.
- Prep ingredients beforehand to streamline cooking process, making this a quick weeknight dinner that looks and tastes gourmet.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg