Herb Chicken Recipe

Looking for a delicious, healthy, and versatile meal? This Herb Chicken Recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal. Bursting with the fresh flavors of rosemary, thyme, parsley, and garlic, this recipe delivers juicy, tender chicken with a perfectly crispy skin. Pair it with roasted vegetables, potatoes, or a simple salad, and you have a restaurant-quality dish made right at home. Read on for a step-by-step guide, tips, variations, and everything you need to know to create the best herb chicken.

What is Herb Chicken?

Herb Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish made by marinating or coating chicken with a blend of fresh or dried herbs, garlic, and olive oil before baking, grilling, or pan-searing. The herbs infuse the chicken with deep, aromatic flavors while keeping it moist and juicy. Herb chicken can be made with chicken breasts, thighs, or even a whole chicken, making it a versatile recipe for any occasion.

Ingredients List for Herb Chicken

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious herb chicken recipe:

For the Chicken:

• Chicken breasts (or thighs, bone-in or boneless): 2 large or 4 medium pieces
• Olive oil: 3 tablespoons
• Fresh herbs: 2 tablespoons each of chopped rosemary, thyme, and parsley (or 2 teaspoons dried herbs)
• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
• Lemon juice: 2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed
• Lemon zest: from 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper: to taste
• Butter: 2 tablespoons (optional, for extra richness)

Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor:

• Red pepper flakes: ½ teaspoon for a touch of heat
• Honey: 1 tablespoon for a hint of sweetness
• White wine or chicken broth: ½ cup, for deglazing the pan or creating a sauce

Substitutions and Variations

Feel free to make this Herb Chicken Recipe your own by swapping ingredients or adjusting flavors to your liking:

1. Different Herbs: Use your favorite herbs like oregano, basil, or tarragon. You can also use Italian seasoning if fresh herbs aren't available.
2. Chicken Thighs or Drumsticks: Dark meat works beautifully in this recipe, delivering extra juicy results.
3. Vegetarian Option: Use the herb marinade on tofu or cauliflower steaks for a delicious vegetarian meal.
4. Grilling Option: For a smoky flavor, grill the herb chicken instead of baking or pan-searing it.
5. Dairy-Free: Skip the butter and stick with olive oil for a dairy-free version.
6. Add Veggies: Toss in vegetables like carrots, potatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers to roast alongside the chicken for an all-in-one meal.
7. Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add some cayenne pepper to give the dish more heat.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

This Herb Chicken Recipe is simple to prepare and can be ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. You can cook it in the oven, on the stovetop, or on the grill.

How to Make Herb Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped herbs (rosemary, thyme, parsley), lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. If using red pepper flakes or honey, add them to the marinade. Whisk everything together until well combined.

Place the chicken breasts in a large bowl or zip-top bag and pour the herb marinade over the chicken. Massage the marinade into the chicken, making sure it’s evenly coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more intense flavor. If you're short on time, you can skip the marination and cook the chicken immediately, but marinating enhances the flavors.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven (if baking)

If you’re baking the chicken, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Option 1: Baked Herb Chicken

Place the marinated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. If you want extra richness, place a small pat of butter on top of each chicken breast. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes for a golden-brown, crispy top.

Option 2: Pan-Seared Herb Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through. If you’re using boneless thighs, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes per side. You can deglaze the pan with ½ cup of white wine or chicken broth to create a light sauce.

Option 3: Grilled Herb Chicken

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the grill grates with oil to prevent sticking. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through (165°F internal temperature). Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.

Step 4: Rest the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken tender and juicy.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Garnish the cooked chicken with freshly chopped parsley or extra herbs, and serve with your favorite sides like roasted potatoes, rice, or a fresh green salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry. Always use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for perfectly cooked chicken.
• Skipping the Resting Step: Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking helps retain its juices, ensuring it stays moist and tender.
• Underseasoning: Be generous with your seasoning and herbs to ensure every bite is full of flavor. Don't forget to salt the chicken well!

Serving and Presentation Tips

Herb chicken is versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides. Here's how to serve it for a balanced and visually appealing meal.

How to Serve Herb Chicken

1. With Vegetables: Serve the herb chicken alongside roasted or steamed vegetables like carrots, green beans, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts.
2. With Grains: Pair the chicken with fluffy rice, quinoa, or couscous for a light but filling meal.
3. In a Salad: Slice the herb chicken and serve it over a fresh green salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, and a drizzle of vinaigrette.
4. With Potatoes: Herb chicken goes wonderfully with mashed, roasted, or baked potatoes.
5. Pasta: For a heartier meal, serve the chicken over a bed of pasta with a light garlic or lemon butter sauce.

Presentation Ideas for Herb Chicken

1. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley, basil, or thyme over the chicken for a fresh, vibrant finish.
2. Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side to squeeze over the chicken for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
3. Sauce Drizzle: Drizzle the chicken with the pan sauce or a simple garlic butter sauce for added moisture and richness.
4. Herb Butter: Top the chicken with a small pat of herb butter (made by mixing softened butter with herbs and garlic) for a luxurious touch.

Herb Chicken Recipe Tips

• Use Fresh Herbs: Whenever possible, use fresh herbs for the best flavor. If you’re using dried herbs, reduce the quantity by half since dried herbs are more concentrated.
• Pound the Chicken: If using chicken breasts, pound them to an even thickness before cooking. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and prevents overcooking.
• Marinate Longer: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours or overnight. The longer the marination, the more flavorful the chicken.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Bone-in chicken will take longer to cook than boneless chicken, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs?

Yes! If you don’t have fresh herbs on hand, you can substitute with dried herbs. Use about half the amount called for, as dried herbs are more potent.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftover herb chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chicken gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave in short bursts, being careful not to overcook it.

Can I freeze herb chicken?

Yes, you can freeze cooked herb chicken. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What can I serve with herb chicken?

Herb chicken pairs well with a wide range of sides, including roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it with pasta or in a sandwich for a quick meal.

Can I use this recipe for a whole chicken?

Yes, you can! Rub the herb mixture all over a whole chicken, including under the skin. Roast the chicken at 400°F for 1 hour to 1 hour 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Conclusion

This Herb Chicken Recipe is a simple, flavorful, and versatile dish that can be enjoyed any night of the week. The combination of fresh herbs, garlic, lemon, and olive oil creates a perfectly seasoned, tender chicken that pairs well with a variety of sides. Whether you're baking, grilling, or pan-searing, this recipe is sure to impress with its delicious flavors and juicy results. Ready to get started? Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a plate of perfectly cooked Herb Chicken tonight!

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