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Quick Lemon Tarragon Chicken Breasts are a delightful dish that brings a burst of flavor and freshness to your dinner table. This recipe combines the zesty brightness of lemon with the distinct taste of tarragon, creating a perfect harmony that elevates the humble chicken breast into a gourmet meal.

Quick Lemon Tarragon Chicken Breasts

A deliciously quick recipe for chicken breasts marinated in lemon and tarragon, seared to perfection.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 4.0 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2.0 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2.0 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1.0 pieces lemon zest
  • 1.0 pieces lemon juice
  • 2.0 teaspoons fresh tarragon, chopped
  • 1.0 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 0.5 cup chicken broth
  • 1.0 tablespoon butter
  • 1.0 sprigs fresh tarragon for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Prep the Chicken: Start by placing the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap. Gently pound them to an even thickness (about 0.75 inch) using a meat mallet or rolling pin. This helps them cook evenly.
  • Marinate the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped tarragon, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken breasts to a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish, pour the marinade over the chicken, and ensure they are well coated. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours if time allows.
  • Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken breasts to the pan. Sear for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  • Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, pour in the chicken broth, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor. Bring to a simmer and let it reduce slightly, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the butter until melted and smooth, incorporating all the flavors.
  • Combine and Serve: Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top to coat. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat through. Adjust seasoning if needed.
  • Plate and Garnish: Serve the chicken breasts on a plate, drizzled with the luscious lemon tarragon sauce. Garnish with fresh tarragon sprigs, if desired, and enjoy!

Notes

For best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes.
Keyword chicken, lemon, quick, tarragon