Name: Mediterranean Lemon-Herb Chicken with Chickpea Salad
Prep time: 35 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each); 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 lemons (1 zested and juiced, 1 sliced); 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp ground cumin; 1/2 tsp salt (plus more to taste); 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

Mediterranean Lemon-Herb Chicken with Chickpea Salad

CreamyGrape9699

This Mediterranean Lemon-Herb Chicken with Chickpea Salad is a vibrant, protein-rich meal that's perfect for a weeknight dinner. Juicy chicken breasts are marinated in a zesty blend of lemon, olive oil, garlic, and herbs, drawing inspiration from the Mediterranean coast. Salting the chicken early ensures maximum flavor, while a final burst of lemon and caramelized lemon slices add brightness to cut the richness. Paired with a fresh chickpea salad bursting with tomatoes, red onion, parsley, and feta, each bite delivers a satisfying balance of savory, tangy, and herbaceous notes. An easy, beautiful dish that will have everyone excited for dinner!

Ingredients

Instructions

Pat chicken breasts dry. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice from one lemon, garlic, oregano, cumin, 1/2 tsp salt, and black pepper. Add chicken and coat well. Let marinate for 10 minutes while prepping salad.
Meanwhile, in a mixing bowl, combine chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, red onion, parsley, and feta cheese. Add a pinch of salt and toss. Set aside.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken breasts and cook 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F).
Remove chicken from skillet and let rest for 3 minutes. While resting, add lemon slices to the skillet and sear for 1 minute per side until slightly caramelized.
Slice chicken and arrange over chickpea salad. Top with caramelized lemon slices. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra lemon or salt as needed.
Serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley if desired.