| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 25 mins – 30 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 370 | 7g | 2g | 27g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 21g | 3g | 42g | 0.468g |
I find myself drawn to the Herbed Chicken with Aniseed Myrtle in a way that’s comparable to the way the ocean breeze greets the coastline in my native Portland, Maine. This recipe, rooted in a rich symphony of herbs and fresh fruit, is as refreshing as the salty sea air and as nourishing as the Atlantic’s bounty. It’s a testament to the incredible versatility of simple, clean ingredients and a nod towards my personal love for fresh produce and lean proteins.
A Fusion of Flavours
Key to this dish is the aniseed myrtle. Originating from Australia, this vibrant, multi-talented herb delivers an aniseed (or liquorice) flavour, underpinned by a rich, leafy base. The aniseed myrtle plays beautifully with fresh basil, rosemary, and thyme, a trinity that takes me back to seaside cooking sessions with my daughters, Erin and Samantha. The honey and fresh lemon juice bring in the coastal touch, refreshing and sweet, akin to our summer favourites like lobster rolls and clam chowder. A final garnish of fresh fruits adds a dash of brightness, reminiscent of the summer season in New England.
Nurturing Your Health
But the Herbed Chicken with Aniseed Myrtle isn’t just about delicious flavours; it’s also a medley of health benefits. The chicken breasts provide lean protein necessary for muscle recovery and maintenance, while olive oil is laden with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. Aniseed myrtle, an Australian native herb, is known for its antioxidant properties, as well as its potential to aid digestion. The sheer freshness of the mixed fruit not only highlights the chicken but also delivers a powerhouse of vitamins and fiber, sealing this dish’s status as a nutrient-packed powerhouse.
This recipe bears a resemblance to the Lime Chicken with Fruit Salsa dish in terms of its fruity and savoury fusion. It could also pair wonderfully with a side of Rosemary Roasted Carrots or a Wheat Berry Salad for a complete, balanced meal.
Every time I whip up the Herbed Chicken with Aniseed Myrtle, I’m reminded of why I fell in love with cooking – it’s a creative expression, a nourishing act, and a way to travel without leaving the comfort of the kitchen.
What You’ll Need
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
- 3 Tablespoons of aniseed myrtle
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil
- 1 Tablespoon of chopped fresh rosemary
- 1 Tablespoon of chopped fresh thyme
- 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup of honey
- 2 cups of mixed fresh fruit (such as pineapple, mango, and strawberries), diced
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).
Step Two
Take your chicken breasts and season them evenly with the salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Step Three
Heat the olive oil in a large, ovenproof skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them until they are golden brown on both sides. This should take about 3-4 minutes per side.
Step Four
While the chicken is browning, mix the garlic, aniseed myrtle, fresh basil, rosemary, and thyme in a small bowl.
Step Five
After the chicken is browned, turn off the hob and evenly distribute the herb mixture on top of the chicken breasts. Drizzle the lemon juice and honey over the top.
Step Six
Move the skillet with the chicken into the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through completely and the juices run clear when you cut the thickest part of a breast with a knife.
Step Seven
While the chicken is baking, prepare your fresh fruit by washing, peeling (if necessary), and dicing it. Set it aside in a bowl.
Step Eight
Once the chicken is done, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes.
Step Nine
Serve the chicken breasts topped with the diced fresh fruit. Enjoy your Herbed Chicken with Aniseed Myrtle!
