Delicious High-Protein Low Carb Lemon Herb Chicken for Meal Prep

This zesty lemon herb chicken is a flavorful and healthy option for meal prep. Marinated in a vibrant mixture of lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs, it delivers a burst of flavor that pairs well with various sides.

The recipe is simple and can be made in bulk, making it perfect for weekly meal planning. You can enjoy it with salads, grains, or roasted vegetables throughout the week.

Preparation of Zesty Lemon Herb Chicken

Creating the zesty lemon herb chicken begins with a flavorful marinade that infuses the chicken with a burst of citrus and herbaceous notes.

Start by combining fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Whisk these ingredients together until well blended. This marinade not only enhances the chicken's flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat, making it juicy and delicious.

Once your marinade is ready, place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or a shallow dish, and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For those who prefer a more intense flavor, marinating for up to four hours is recommended.

Cooking Techniques

When it’s time to cook, preheat your grill or oven to 375°F (190°C).

If you opt for grilling, cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, ensuring that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Alternatively, if baking, place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet and let it bake for 25-30 minutes.

After cooking, allow the chicken to rest for about five minutes. This step is crucial as it helps retain the juices, resulting in a moist and flavorful dish. Once rested, slice the chicken and prepare it for serving.

Serving Suggestions

This zesty lemon herb chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides.

Consider serving it alongside a colorful array of roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots. These vegetables not only add visual appeal but also complement the chicken's flavors beautifully.

For a wholesome meal, grains like quinoa or brown rice can be included, providing a nutritious base that balances the dish. Garnish the chicken with fresh herbs and lemon slices for an inviting presentation that enhances the overall dining experience.

Meal Prep Benefits

This recipe is ideal for meal prep, allowing you to prepare multiple servings at once.

With just a little effort, you can have delicious, healthy meals ready for the week. The chicken can be stored in the refrigerator and enjoyed in salads, wraps, or as a main dish with various sides.

This versatility makes it a perfect choice for busy individuals looking to maintain a nutritious diet without spending hours in the kitchen each day.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of this zesty lemon herb chicken is packed with nutrients.

With approximately 220 calories, 30 grams of protein, and only 10 grams of fat, it provides a satisfying meal that supports a healthy lifestyle.

The low carbohydrate content makes it suitable for those following a low-carb diet, while the protein helps to keep you feeling full and energized throughout the day.

Easy Lemon Herb Chicken Recipe

This lemon herb chicken features tender chicken breasts marinated in a zesty mixture and grilled or baked to perfection. The recipe takes about 1 hour from start to finish and serves 4 people.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Lemon slices for garnish optional

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
3. Cook the Chicken: Preheat the grill or oven to 375°F (190°C). If grilling, cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). If baking, place the chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes.
4. Rest and Slice: Once cooked, remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
5. Serve: Garnish with lemon slices if desired and serve with your choice of sides.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Marinating Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: 220kcal
• Fat: 10g
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 2g