Zesty Lemon Herb Garlic Parmesan Chicken
This Zesty Lemon Herb Garlic Parmesan Chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts coated in a vibrant mixture of garlic, Parmesan, lemon, and herbs, then pan-seared to golden perfection. It's a quick and flavorful meal that's perfect for any night of the week.
Equipment
- Paper towels
- Shallow dish
- Large skillet
- Tongs
- Cutting board
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 fillets boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 oz each), pounded to 1/2-inch thickness
Marinade
- 3 cloves fresh garlic minced
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Garnish
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt and black pepper.
- In a shallow dish, combine minced garlic, grated Parmesan, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Marinate & Cook
- Place the seasoned chicken in the mixture, ensuring it's well coated, and marinate for 15-30 minutes or cook immediately.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the chicken breasts.
- Sear the chicken for 4-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through to 165°F (74°C).
Rest & Serve
- Remove chicken, let it rest for 5 minutes on a cutting board to keep it moist.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
For extra tenderness, ensure the chicken breasts are pounded to an even 1/2-inch thickness. Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred level of spiciness. Marinating the chicken for the suggested 15-30 minutes will significantly enhance the flavor, but if you're short on time, it's still delicious cooked immediately. Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety. Resting the chicken after cooking is crucial for juicy results.