Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Feel free to make substitutions where needed. For instance, if you’re out of chicken broth, a vegetable broth or even water with a dash more seasoning can work in a pinch. Remember, cooking is about flexibility and using what you have on hand!
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure the chicken cooks evenly and develops a lovely golden crust.
- Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken breasts. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. My grandmother always said you could tell a good sear by the sound—a gentle sizzle, not a loud splatter.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it—garlic turns bitter when overcooked.
- Add the lemon juice, zest, salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes to the skillet, stirring to combine.
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. This will add depth to your sauce and prevent anything from sticking while it bakes.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over each piece. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). I recommend using a meat thermometer for accuracy; it’s a small investment that pays off in perfectly cooked meat.
- Once done, remove the skillet from the oven. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving, allowing the juices to redistribute.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. It adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness that ties everything together beautifully.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
