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Delicious Lemon Garlic Chicken

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Delicious Lemon Garlic Chicken

Looking for a quick, easy, and delicious dinner option? Look no further than this versatile Lemon Garlic Chicken recipe. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something that’s both satisfying and simple to make, this dish is packed with flavor while being incredibly healthy.

This Lemon Garlic Chicken uses just five main ingredients: chicken breasts, lemon, garlic, olive oil, and fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. It takes about 25 minutes of active cooking time, making it perfect for busy families who want a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The recipe yields four servings, which makes it ideal for a family dinner or even a light lunch served with a side salad.

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Four 6-ounce chicken breasts
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • Zest and juice of one large lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
  • Two cloves garlic, minced finely
  • A handful of fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional but highly recommended!)

How to Prepare Lemon Garlic Chicken

Begin by preparing your ingredients. Make sure you have all the necessary items on hand before starting so that you can move swiftly through each step without delay.

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Mix together olive oil, lemon zest and juice in a small bowl. Set aside this marinade mixture.
  3. In another small bowl, mash the garlic clove into a smooth paste or finely mince it if possible. You can use a mortar and pestle for this process to get the best results; however, any method will do.
  4. Place all four chicken breasts in an oven-safe dish large enough to hold them comfortably in one layer without crowding too much. Spread the garlic-lemon mixture over each piece of meat until they are well coated on both sides.
  5. Cook your Lemon Garlic Chicken for approximately 25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C).

How to Serve It

Serve this delicious Lemon Garlic Chicken with a simple side of steamed vegetables like green beans or carrots. A fresh salad on the side adds freshness and completes the meal nicely.

Tips for Making Lemon Garlic Chicken

  • If you prefer extra flavor, consider adding more lemon zest to taste.
  • For even more zing, sprinkle some freshly ground black pepper over the top before roasting.
  • To make ahead, prepare all components but do not roast until just before serving time. This way, you can still enjoy fresh chicken straight from your oven when it’s time for dinner!

Health Benefits of Lemon Garlic Chicken

This dish is rich in various health benefits due to its key ingredients:

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  • Lemon: Citrus fruits like lemons are excellent sources of vitamin C, which strengthens the immune system and promotes healthy skin.
  • Garlic: Garlic contains sulfur compounds that help reduce blood pressure levels and improve heart health.
  • Chicken Breast: Packed full of protein, chicken breast is a low-fat option that supports muscle growth and recovery after physical activity.