Herbs: 1 tablespoon of dried herbs (like oregano, thyme, or rosemary)
Honey or Maple Syrup: 1 tablespoon (optional)
Chili Flakes: ½ teaspoon (optional)
Vegetables: Bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus (optional)
Cheese: Feta or mozzarella (optional)
Instructions
Marinate the chicken by combining olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and herbs in a bowl. Add the chicken breasts and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Choose a cooking method: grill, bake, or sauté the marinated chicken.
For grilling, preheat the grill to medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
For baking, preheat the oven to 400°F, place the chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 20-25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
For sautéing, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to retain its juices.
Notes
Marinate for a few hours or overnight for deeper flavor.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked to 165°F.
Let the chicken rest after cooking for juicier results.
Experiment with different marinades and cooking methods for variety.