Citrus-Infused Herb Crusted Chicken

#recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 35 minutes Total Time: 50 minutes Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh oregano, chopped
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
2. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, and minced garlic. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour half of the mixture over them, turning to coat. Let marinate for 10–15 minutes.
3. In another bowl, mix together Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, thyme, rosemary, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Remove chicken from marinade (discard leftover marinade) and press the herb-Parmesan mixture evenly onto the top of each breast.
5. Place chicken in the prepared baking dish, coated side up. Drizzle with remaining lemon-garlic mixture.
6. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the crust is golden brown.
7. Let rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Notes

• For extra juiciness, consider using chicken thighs instead of breasts.
• This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a crisp arugula salad.
• The herb crust can be prepared ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.