Delight your taste buds and nourish your heart with this flavorful Heart-Healthy Tarragon Chicken recipe. Perfectly seasoned boneless, skinless chicken breasts are seared to golden perfection, then simmered in a fragrant sauce featuring fresh tarragon, zesty lemon, and a splash of low-sodium chicken broth. This easy, 40-minute dish is light yet satisfying, combining nutrient-rich ingredients like olive oil and garlic for a wholesome, guilt-free meal. Garnished with vibrant parsley and ideal for pairing with steamed vegetables or whole grains, this recipe is designed to deliver exceptional flavor while supporting a heart-healthy lifestyle. Whether you're cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting guests, this tarragon chicken will be your new go-to winner in the kitchen.
Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Gently pound them to an even 1/2-inch thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
In a small dish, combine the black pepper, paprika (if using), and half of the chopped tarragon. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts, pressing lightly so the seasoning adheres.
In a large non-stick skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they achieve a golden-brown crust and are cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove the chicken to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the remaining 0.5 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Deglaze the skillet by pouring in the low-sodium chicken broth and scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and remaining chopped tarragon. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Return the chicken breasts and any accumulated juices back to the skillet. Spoon the tarragon lemon sauce over the chicken and let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Transfer the chicken to serving plates, drizzle with the pan sauce, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately with your favorite heart-healthy sides such as steamed vegetables or brown rice.
Calories |
1173 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 42.3 g | 54% | |
| Saturated Fat | 9.0 g | 45% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 482 mg | 161% | |
| Sodium | 462 mg | 20% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 10.7 g | 4% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.8 g | 10% | |
| Total Sugars | 2.1 g | ||
| Protein | 178.8 g | 358% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.1 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 131 mg | 10% | |
| Iron | 7.2 mg | 40% | |
| Potassium | 1698 mg | 36% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.