One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken Recipe

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Busy weeknight? This zesty lemon herb chicken cooks in just one pan for a flavorful, low-mess dinner that’s clean, high in protein, and family-approved.

Ever had one of those nights where you just can’t deal with a sink full of dishes?

That was me.
A few years ago, dinnertime felt chaotic. I’d try to “eat clean,” but everything took too long or tasted bland. One night, I threw chicken, herbs, and lemon slices into a pan… and magic happened.

This One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken became an instant favorite. It’s bright, juicy, herby, and feels like something you'd get at a cozy little café — only it’s fast, fresh, and made right in your kitchen.

This is the kind of recipe that makes you feel like you have it all together — even if your hair’s in a messy bun and your toddler’s wearing socks on their hands.

 

WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS RECIPE

  • ✅ One pan = easy cleanup

  • 🍋 Bright lemon + savory herbs = BIG flavor

  • 💪 High protein + clean ingredients

  • ⏱️ Ready in under 30 minutes

  • 👩‍👧‍👦 Family-friendly (even picky eaters love it!)

 

INGREDIENTS

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 lemon, thinly sliced

  • Juice of 1 lemon

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 tsp dried oregano

  • 1 tsp dried thyme

  • ½ tsp salt

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

 

INSTRUCTIONS

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

  2. Sear the chicken:
    Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
    Season chicken with salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme.
    Sear for 2–3 minutes per side, just until golden.

  3. Add the flavor:
    Add minced garlic and lemon slices to the pan. Squeeze lemon juice over the top. Let it sizzle for a minute.

  4. Roast:
    Transfer the entire skillet to the oven. Roast for 15–18 minutes, or until the chicken reaches 165°F internally.

  5. Serve:
    Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra squeeze of lemon. Serve with roasted veggies or a side of quinoa.

 

SARAH’S TIPS

  • Don’t skip the sear! It locks in juiciness and adds flavor.

  • Swap in chicken thighs if you prefer dark meat — just adjust cooking time.

  • Serve leftovers sliced over salad or in wraps for lunch tomorrow.

  • Want extra sauce? Add ¼ cup chicken broth before roasting.

 

FLAVORFUL CONCLUSION

You don't need a million ingredients or hours in the kitchen to make a healthy dinner that feels special. This one-pan lemon herb chicken is proof.

Simple. Zesty. Comforting. And done before your favorite show starts.

 

NUTRITION (Per Serving – serves 4):

Calories: 285
Protein: 32g
Carbs: 3g
Fat: 16g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g

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