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20 Quick And Easy Dinner Recipes Chicken Lovers Can Make In Minutes
MD Ashraf Ahmed

Speedy Lemon Herb Chicken

Bright, juicy pan-seared chicken with lemon and herbs, ready in about 20 minutes. It's the dinner I make when I want something that feels fancy but takes almost no effort.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil divided
  • 1 large lemon half juiced, half sliced
  • 1 tsp dried thyme or 1 tbsp fresh
  • 1 tsp dried parsley or 1 tbsp fresh
  • ¾ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper

Method
 

  1. Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of parchment and pound them to an even ¾-inch thickness. This helps them cook evenly and fast.
  2. Rub the chicken with 1 tbsp olive oil. Season both sides with salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley.
  3. Squeeze the lemon juice over the chicken and let it rest for 5 minutes while the pan heats.
  4. Heat the remaining 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  5. Add the chicken and the lemon slices. Sear for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  6. Rest the chicken for 3 minutes, then spoon the pan juices over the top.
  7. Serve with a quick side salad or steamed rice.

Notes

  • Pounding the chicken is the step that keeps it juicy instead of dry.
  • Don't overcrowd the pan, or the chicken will steam instead of sear.
  • Fresh herbs give the best flavor, but dried work well on a busy night.
  • Thicker breasts may need an extra minute or two per side. Use a thermometer to be sure.
  • Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to 3 days and are great sliced over a salad or in a wrap.