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Simple Lemon Herb Chicken

Simple Lemon Herb Chicken is a quick and easy dinner made with tender chicken breasts, fresh lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, and parsley. This light and flavorful chicken recipe comes together with just a few simple ingredients and is perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

  • 2 (5-ounce) skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
  • 1 medium lemon, juiced and divided
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pinch dried oregano
  • 2 sprigs fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  3. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5–7 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until golden and cooked through.
  4. Squeeze half of the lemon juice over the chicken during the final few minutes of cooking. Sprinkle the oregano over the chicken.
  5. Continue cooking until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the lemon juice has lightly coated the chicken.
  6. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 3–5 minutes.
  7. Squeeze the remaining lemon juice over the chicken, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Notes

  • For evenly cooked chicken, pound thicker portions to an even thickness before cooking.
  • Freshly squeezed lemon juice gives the chicken a brighter flavor than bottled lemon juice.
  • Do not overcook the chicken; remove it from the heat once it reaches 165°F (74°C).
  • Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes helps keep it juicy.
  • Serve with roasted vegetables, rice, potatoes, or a simple green salad.