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A healthy chicken breast recipe for weeknights, showing a prepared dish.

Classic Healthy Chicken Breast for Weeknights

This recipe provides a simple yet flavorful way to prepare healthy chicken breasts for a quick and easy weeknight meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings: 2 fillets
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 oz each)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Equipment

  • paper towels
  • meat mallet (optional)
  • shallow dish or zip-top bag
  • large skillet (cast iron or stainless steel)
  • cutting board

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and, if thick, pound them to an even 1/2 to 3/4-inch thickness or slice horizontally.
  2. In a shallow dish, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper, then add chicken and coat completely.
  3. Marinate the chicken in the fridge for at least 15-30 minutes, or up to 4 hours, for best flavor.
Cooking
  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil or high-smoke-point oil.
  2. Add chicken to the hot pan and sear for 4-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through to 165°F (74°C).
Serving
  1. Transfer cooked chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5-10 minutes.
  2. Slice the rested chicken against the grain for tender bites and serve.

Notes

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade. Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.