Imagine a dish that transforms your ordinary dinner into a gourmet experience with just a few simple ingredients. This Lemon Tarragon Chicken with Asparagus is not just a meal—it's a flavor-packed journey that will transport your taste buds straight to the French countryside. With its bright, herbaceous notes and perfectly roasted chicken, this recipe promises to elevate your home cooking from mundane to magnificent in just 35 minutes!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 2 tablespoons fresh tarragon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 2 chicken breasts, 1 bunch of asparagus (trimmed), 1 lemon (juiced), 2 tablespoons of fresh tarragon (chopped), 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for roasting the chicken and asparagus.
- In a small bowl, combine the lemon juice, chopped tarragon, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Whisk the mixture until well blended to create a marinade.
- Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour half of the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it is well coated. Allow it to marinate for about 10 minutes to enhance the flavor.
- While the chicken is marinating, prepare the asparagus. Place the trimmed asparagus on a baking sheet and drizzle with a little olive oil. Season with salt and pepper, then toss to coat evenly.
- After the chicken has marinated, remove it from the dish or bag and place it on a separate baking sheet. Pour the remaining marinade over the chicken breasts.
- Once the oven is preheated, place both the chicken and asparagus in the oven. Roast the chicken for about 20-25 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is golden brown. The asparagus should be tender yet crisp, which will take about the same time.
- After cooking, remove both the chicken and asparagus from the oven. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it. This helps retain the juices.
- To serve, plate the chicken breasts alongside the roasted asparagus. Drizzle any remaining juices from the baking sheet over the chicken for added flavor. Garnish with additional fresh tarragon if desired.
- Enjoy your Lemon Tarragon Chicken with Asparagus, a delightful French-inspired dish!
Tips
- Marinate Matters: Don't rush the marinating process. Those 10 minutes allow the chicken to absorb the lemon and tarragon flavors deeply.
- Temperature is Key: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches exactly 165°F (74°C) for perfect doneness without drying out.
- Asparagus Perfection: Choose fresh, bright green asparagus and trim the woody ends for the best texture and flavor.
- Olive Oil Trick: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for a richer, more authentic taste.
- Resting is Crucial: Always let your chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to redistribute the juices, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.
- Garnish Generously: A sprinkle of fresh tarragon just before serving adds a burst of color and an extra layer of aromatic freshness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 95mg
