Description
A quick, healthy, and satisfying chicken breast recipe using just five simple ingredients, perfect for busy weeknights and minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 12 ounces / 340g)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 tablespoon)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Set aside.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons olive oil. Heat until shimmering but not smoking.
- Place chicken breasts in the skillet and cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes until firm to the touch.
- Reduce heat to medium-low. Push chicken to one side of the skillet. Add minced garlic to the empty side and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour lemon juice over the chicken and garlic, basting the chicken with the lemony oil.
- Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and cook gently for another 3-4 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) or no pink remains.
- Transfer chicken to a plate and let rest for 2 minutes. Serve with a sprinkle of black pepper and optional fresh herbs.
Notes
Pat chicken dry for a crispy sear. Do not overcrowd the skillet. Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor. Let chicken rest before serving. Adjust seasoning after cooking as lemon juice can mellow saltiness. Avoid burning garlic by adding it after searing and cooking on medium-low heat.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (ap
- Calories: 280
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 10
- Saturated Fat: 1.5
- Carbohydrates: 1
- Protein: 40
Keywords: healthy chicken breast, easy chicken dinner, 5-ingredient chicken recipe, quick chicken breast, weeknight dinner, low carb chicken