Description
Tender chicken breasts are marinated with fresh rosemary, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil, then pan-seared in a skillet with butter to develop a golden crust and infused with bright, herbaceous flavors. This easy rosemary chicken recipe delivers a juicy, aromatic main dish perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 600 g boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp lemon zest
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Cooking
- 1 tbsp butter
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season both sides evenly with salt, black pepper, paprika, and chopped fresh rosemary to infuse flavor.
- Heat the skillet: Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat until the oil shimmers.
- Cook the chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the hot skillet. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes on one side without moving, allowing a golden crust to form.
- Flip the chicken: Turn the chicken breasts over and cook the other side for another 5 to 7 minutes, depending on thickness, ensuring thorough cooking.
- Add garlic and butter: During the last 1 to 2 minutes of cooking, add the minced garlic and 1 tablespoon of butter to the pan. Spoon the melted garlic butter over the chicken continuously to infuse rich flavor.
- Add lemon flavors: Drizzle 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice over the chicken and sprinkle the lemon zest evenly, enhancing the bright and fresh aroma.
- Check doneness: Continue to cook just until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 74°C (165°F), ensuring safety and juiciness.
- Rest the chicken: Transfer the chicken onto a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender, moist meat.
- Serve: Garnish with additional fresh rosemary sprigs if desired and slice before serving. Pair with roasted potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- For even cooking, pound thick chicken breasts to an even thickness before seasoning.
- Chicken thighs can be substituted for breasts if preferred; adjust cooking time accordingly.
- This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, steamed green beans, or a crisp garden salad.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-inspired