Deliciously Easy Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe

Looking for a simple yet flavorful meal that can be prepared in no time? Try this lemon garlic chicken recipe which is sure to satisfy your taste buds and impress your family or friends at dinner parties.

Lemon garlic chicken is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. It requires minimal effort, yet yields impressive results. This dish complements a wide range of side dishes, making it perfect for various occasions.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

To make the lemon garlic chicken, you will need approximately half an hour. Depending on the size and thickness of your chicken pieces, the actual cooking time might vary slightly.

Number of Servings: 4

This recipe is designed to serve four people comfortably.
If you're planning a larger gathering or feeding more guests, consider doubling or tripling the ingredients accordingly.

Ingredients:

Here's what you will need for this dish:

4 skinless chicken breasts
2 lemons (1 cut into wedges for serving, 1 juiced)
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 cup of olive oil
1 teaspoon of dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
4 tablespoons of butter (optional but recommended)

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, prepare your lemon juice by juicing one of the lemons.
In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside this marinade mixture.
Pat your chicken breasts dry with paper towels and then place them in a shallow dish that can hold all of the chicken pieces comfortably. Pour the marinade over the chicken and let it sit for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate into the meat.
Rinse off any excess marinade from your chicken breasts, discarding it. If you're using butter in this recipe (optional), place a skillet on medium heat. Place the chicken pieces skin-side down first and sear them for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown. Then flip the breasts over and cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can check this using a meat thermometer.
Transfer your chicken from the skillet to a baking dish large enough to hold all of them snugly. Roast in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
While your chicken is roasting, you can prepare a simple side dish such as roasted vegetables or a salad to go alongside.
Once done, remove your chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender and juicy when sliced.
Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side to garnish each plate.

Why You’ll Love Lemon Garlic Chicken:

This recipe offers a simple yet vibrant twist on traditional chicken dishes. The combination of lemon, garlic, and herbs creates an explosion of flavor that enhances any meal. Whether you're looking for something quick to prepare during a busy weeknight or want to impress guests with your culinary skills, this dish is sure to be a hit.

Healthy Benefits:

Lemon garlic chicken can also serve as part of your healthy eating plan. Chicken breasts are lean and high in protein, which helps boost metabolism and increase muscle mass. Additionally, lemons provide essential vitamins such as vitamin C, known for boosting immunity and promoting skin health.

Variations:

Herbed Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce: For an extra indulgent touch, mix the melted butter with more minced garlic, lemon zest, and a few tablespoons of freshly chopped parsley or other herbs like thyme. Drizzle this over your chicken right before serving.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Serve this dish alongside creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting dinner experience.
Fresh Vegetables: Pair it with steamed broccoli, asparagus, or any other fresh vegetables of your choice to add more nutritional value and variety to the meal.

Tips for Success:

To ensure perfect results when preparing this dish:

Make sure that the chicken pieces are patted dry before seasoning. Moist chicken tends to steam rather than brown, leading to less tasty results.
Avoid overcrowding your pan or baking dish. Allowing space between pieces allows for even cooking and prevents sticking or uneven browning.
Cooking the chicken skin-side down first seals in moisture inside while creating a crisp exterior once flipped over during roasting.

Conclusion:

Lemon garlic chicken is not just an everyday meal; it's also versatile enough to elevate your cooking game. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, this dish can be enjoyed by both beginners and experienced cooks alike. Try this recipe today and treat yourself and your loved ones to a delicious and satisfying meal!