Description
Delicious Mediterranean herb-crusted chicken breast recipe perfect for weight loss. High-protein, low-calorie, and packed with aromatic herbs for maximum flavor without compromising your fitness goals.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lemon, sliced for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels and place them on a cutting board. If the breasts are particularly thick, pound them to an even 3/4-inch thickness for uniform cooking.
- In a small bowl, combine oregano, basil, garlic powder, lemon zest, salt, and pepper to create the herb seasoning blend.
- Brush both sides of each chicken breast with olive oil, then generously sprinkle the herb mixture on all surfaces for maximum flavor penetration.
- Place seasoned chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain juices. Garnish with lemon slices and serve immediately.
Notes
- Always use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature
- Pounding chicken to even thickness ensures uniform cooking
- Herb blend can be made in larger batches and stored for future meal prep
- Let chicken rest 5 minutes after cooking to retain maximum juiciness
- Store leftovers in refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months
- For meal prep, cook proteins separately from vegetables to maintain optimal texture
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (6 oz)
- Calories: 185
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
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