Pat chicken dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, garlic and lemon zest.
Step 2
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium–high heat.
Step 3
Add chicken breasts and cook for 5–6 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through (internal temperature 74 °C/165 °F).
Step 4
Squeeze lemon juice over the chicken and cook for an additional 1 minute, spooning pan juices over the top.
Step 5
Transfer to a serving plate, garnish with parsley, and serve immediately.
When craving a healthy, flavorful dinner that comes together in under 30 minutes, this Mediterranean lemon herb chicken breast recipe delivers every time. With simple pantry staples and fresh citrus, you'll create a succulent, perfectly seasoned chicken ideal for busy weeknights and special occasions. Read on for a step-by-step guide to mastering this easy lemon garlic chicken breast dish, plus expert tips, serving suggestions, and answers to your most common questions.
Why This Lemon Herb Chicken Breast Recipe Is the Best Choice for Quick Weeknight Meals
Bold Mediterranean Flavors in Minutes
Thanks to a vibrant blend of lemon zest, garlic, oregano, and thyme, this recipe transforms ordinary chicken breasts into a dish bursting with bright, herb-infused flavor. Long gone are bland, dry breasts—this easy lemon garlic chicken breast marinade locks in moisture and ensures each bite is perfectly seasoned.
Minimal Prep, Maximum Impact
From start to finish, you'll spend just 8 minutes prepping and 12 minutes cooking. This makes it one of the most reliable quick weeknight chicken recipes you can memorize. Toss your chicken in the marinade, sear it on the stove, and finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice—no oven required.
Ingredients for the Best Mediterranean Lemon Garlic Chicken Breast
Look for evenly sized breasts so they cook at the same rate.
For an even faster cook, you can butterfly thicker breasts or gently pound them to a uniform thickness.
Fresh Herbs and Citrus
2 tablespoons olive oil
Virgin olive oil brings authentic Mediterranean character and helps the herbs adhere.
2 cloves garlic, minced
Fresh garlic adds pungent depth—avoid pre-minced jars if you can.
Zest and juice of 1 large lemon (about 2 tablespoons juice)
The lemon zest infuses aromatic oils; the juice brightens each forkful.
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Dried Mediterranean herbs concentrate flavor, but you can substitute 1 tablespoon each of fresh oregano and thyme if available.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Season generously to ensure your juicy grilled chicken breast stays moist and flavorful.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish
It is not required but adds a pop of color and herbal freshness.
Step-by-Step Directions to Make Juicy Lemon Herb Chicken Breast
Season and Marinate (Prep time: 8 minutes)
Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel.
Whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper to create the lemon herb marinade in a small bowl.
Rub the marinade all over each chicken breast. If you have extra time, cover and refrigerate for 15–30 minutes to deepen the flavor; otherwise, proceed directly to cooking.
Heat the Pan
Place a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Allow it to become hot enough that a drop of water sizzles on contact.
Sear the Chicken (Cook time: 12 minutes total)
Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the pan and swirl to coat.
Place the marinated chicken breasts in the skillet, leaving space between each piece.
Cook undisturbed for 5–6 minutes until the underside develops a golden-brown crust—the hallmark of a juicy grilled chicken breast even on the stovetop.
Flip and Finish
Flip each chicken breast and cook for another 5–6 minutes. An instant-read thermometer ensures the internal temperature reaches 165 °F (74 °C).
In the final minute, squeeze extra lemon juice over the top and tilt the pan slightly, spooning the pan juices over each breast for extra flavor.
Rest and Garnish
Transfer the chicken to a cutting board or serving platter. Tent loosely with foil and let rest for 5 minutes.
Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving to enhance the visual appeal and freshness.
Pro Tips for Perfectly Cooked Chicken Breast
Ensure Even Thickness
For foolproof cooking, butterfly thicker breasts or gently pound them between sheets of plastic wrap. This quick Mediterranean lemon herb chicken method prevents overcooked edges and underdone centers.
Don't Skip the Rest
Resting allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat. Cutting immediately after cooking will cause precious juices to run out, resulting in a drier chicken breast.
Experiment with Marinade Times
Quick-Marinated Chicken: Marinate at room temperature for at least 5 minutes if pressed for time.
Deep-Flavor Option: Marinate in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours—ideal for batch cooking or entertaining.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This Mediterranean lemon herb chicken breast pairs beautifully with a variety of sides:
Greek Salad: Crisp cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and Kalamata olives tossed in olive oil and red wine vinegar.
Herbed Couscous or Quinoa: Fluffy grains seasoned with chopped mint and parsley complement the chicken's bright citrus notes.
Roasted Vegetables: Try asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini, drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with oregano.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and comforting, with a hint of roasted garlic to bridge Mediterranean and classic American flavors.
Health Benefits of Chicken Breast
As a lean protein source, chicken breast provides essential amino acids for muscle maintenance and repair. When paired with heart-healthy olive oil and fresh herbs, this recipe becomes a nutritious staple in any balanced diet:
Low in Fat: Removing the skin significantly reduces saturated fat content.
Rich in Protein: Four ounces of cooked chicken breast deliver about 26 grams of protein.
Vitamin B Complex: Supports energy production and brain health.
Minerals: Provides selenium and phosphorus, which arecritical for immune function and bone health.
Lemon Herb Chicken Breast Variations and Substitutions
Grilled Version
Preheat your grill to medium-high and cook breasts for 6–7 minutes per side, following the exact marinade instructions for an easy grilled lemon herb chicken breast. Grilling adds a smoky char that elevates the flavor profile.
Dairy-Free Creamy Sauce
Mix dairy-free Greek-style yogurt with lemon zest and chopped herbs to create a simple drizzle. Serve it alongside the chicken for a tangy, cooling contrast.
Gluten-Free Adaptation
This recipe is naturally gluten-free—just double-check that your dried herbs and yogurt (if using) do not contain hidden gluten.
Storing, Reheating, and Meal-Prepping
Refrigerator: Store cooked chicken breasts in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze individual portions for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Gently warm in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth or in a 300 °F oven until heated through—this prevents dryness.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lemon Herb Chicken Breast
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Absolutely! Bone-in or boneless thighs cook similarly but may require an extra 2–3 minutes per side. Marinate as directed, then adjust the cooking time.
Q: What if I don't have fresh lemons?
A: To maintain a bright citrus flavor, substitute 2 tablespoons of bottled lemon juice and 1 teaspoon of lemon zest (freeze-dried zest works in a pinch).
Q: How do I know the chicken is cooked through?
A: Use an instant-read thermometer—165 °F at the thickest part is your target. Alternatively, cut into the breast; juices should run clear.
Q: Can I double this recipe for meal prep?
A: Yes! Double all ingredients and work in batches so the chicken isn't overcrowded in the pan. Store as individual portions for grab-and-go lunches.
Conclusion
This Mediterranean lemon herb chicken breast recipe ticks every box for busy home cooks: it's quick, healthy, and flavorful. Whether seeking a juicy grilled chicken breast, a simple weeknight dinner idea, or a make-ahead meal prep solution, this dish never disappoints. Bookmark this guide, gather ingredients and transform everyday chicken breasts into a culinary standout.
Enjoy the bright, zesty flavors and savor every moist, herby bite—your new go-to chicken breast recipe awaits!