If you're searching for a dish that effortlessly combines vibrant flavors with straightforward preparation, look no further than our delightful Chicken with Lemon and Sage! This Italian-inspired recipe will transport your taste buds to a sun-drenched Mediterranean kitchen, all while being ready in just 40 minutes. Imagine succulent chicken breasts infused with the zesty brightness of fresh lemon and the aromatic depth of sage—it's a culinary experience you won't want to miss. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove chicken breasts from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow them to come to room temperature, ensuring even cooking.
- Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve better browning.
- Season both sides of chicken breasts generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Finely mince garlic cloves and chop fresh sage leaves into small, uniform pieces.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until the oil shimmers and is hot.
- Carefully place chicken breasts into the hot pan, laying them away from you to prevent oil splashing.
- Cook chicken for approximately 6-7 minutes on the first side, allowing a golden-brown crust to develop.
- Flip chicken breasts and add minced garlic and chopped sage to the pan, cooking for an additional 6-7 minutes.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
- Check internal temperature of chicken with a meat thermometer - it should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Remove chicken from pan and let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring moist meat.
- Optionally, garnish with additional fresh sage leaves and lemon wedges before serving.
Tips
- Bring to Room Temperature: For perfectly cooked chicken, remove the breasts from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking. This helps them cook evenly and stay juicy.
- Dry the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels before seasoning. This step is crucial for achieving a beautiful golden-brown crust.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper! Generously season both sides of the chicken to enhance the flavor.
- Watch the Heat: When heating your olive oil, ensure it’s hot but not smoking. This prevents the oil from burning and helps the chicken sear nicely.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Let it Rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat more tender and flavorful.
- Garnish for Presentation: For an extra touch, garnish with fresh sage leaves and lemon wedges before serving. It adds a pop of color and enhances the dish's aromatic appeal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 95mg
