Tender Lemon Herb Chicken

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 30 min
🍽 Serves: 4
★★★★★
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Meet your new weeknight dinner hero: Tender Lemon Herb Chicken. This dish combines tangy lemon and fragrant herbs, wrapped in a creamy Parmesan coating that keeps the chicken juicy. It's quick to put together and will elevate any meal with its fresh, savory flavors.

Ingredients for Tender Lemon Herb Chicken

Chicken breasts are the star here, offering a lean, protein-rich base. The mayonnaise ensures a moist, tender texture, while Parmesan cheese adds a savory depth. Lemon juice and lemon zest bring brightness and freshness that contrast beautifully with the earthy flavors of dried thyme and dried rosemary. Garlic powder adds a subtle warmth, with black pepper and salt rounding out the seasoning. For a crunchy finish, breadcrumbs mixed with olive oil create a golden topping that completes the dish.

Tips & Tricks

  • If you prefer a finer crumb, pulse the breadcrumbs in a food processor before mixing with oil.
  • For a bit more color, switch to broil for the last 2 mins — but watch closely to avoid burning.
  • Double the recipe and freeze half for a future meal. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Serving Suggestions

This chicken pairs beautifully with a light, crisp salad or some roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider serving alongside a creamy risotto or buttery mashed potatoes to complement the lemony flavors. A glass of chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, pairs wonderfully with this dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time, as thighs may require a few more minutes to cook through.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken and keep it covered in the fridge for a few hours before baking.
Is it okay to use fresh herbs?
Yes, fresh herbs can be used. Simply double the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.

Tender Lemon Herb Chicken Recipe Walkthrough

First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and take a moment to grease your baking dish. This little step ensures the chicken won't stick and makes cleanup a breeze.

Next, grab a mixing bowl and combine the mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, lemon zest, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix until everything is well blended. This mixture will serve as both a marinade and a coating.

Now, coat each chicken breast generously with the creamy mixture, making sure every inch is covered. Arrange them snugly in your prepared baking dish, ensuring they aren't overlapping.

In a separate bowl, stir together the breadcrumbs and olive oil. This combo will give you that delightful crispy top. Sprinkle evenly over the chicken, ensuring a good coverage for that crunch factor.

Pop the dish into the oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it after the 20-minute mark; you want the chicken cooked through and the topping golden brown.

Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute and ensures the chicken remains tender.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients.
  • Delivers a burst of fresh, zesty flavor with every bite.
  • Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
  • Uses pantry staples, making it budget-friendly.
  • Adaptable for different dietary preferences.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons olive oil

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish.
2. In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, Parmesan, lemon juice, lemon zest, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
3. Coat each chicken breast with the mixture and place in the baking dish.
4. In another bowl, combine breadcrumbs and olive oil, then sprinkle over the chicken.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and topping is golden brown.
6. Allow to rest for a few minutes before serving.

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