Easy Lemon Garlic Chicken: A Simple Recipe for Family Dinners

Lemon garlic chicken is a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed as a simple weeknight meal or elevated to become the star of any special dinner party. The fresh flavors and simplicity make it an easy dish to prepare, ensuring that your family will love this dish. Today, we'll share how you can cook up a batch with minimal effort.

This recipe serves 4 people and takes about 30 minutes to prepare from start to finish. If you're looking for something quick yet delicious, you've come to the right place!

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 3 lemons - 2 will be juiced and 1 sliced for garnish
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

To begin, preheat your oven to 400°F. Once the oven is warmed up, place a large baking dish on the rack and drizzle with one tablespoon of olive oil. This will help prevent the chicken from sticking during cooking.

Next, in a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and two tablespoons of olive oil until well combined. Set this mixture aside while you prepare the chicken pieces. Carefully pat the chicken dry with paper towels before coating each piece liberally on both sides with your garlic-lemon mixture.

Once all of the chicken has been coated, arrange them neatly in the prepared baking dish. Bake for approximately 25 minutes or until fully cooked through; ensure that the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F when checked with a thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the meat. While the chicken is cooking, squeeze one lemon over the top of the bird to add an extra burst of flavor.

When ready to serve, take your golden brown pieces out of the oven and let them rest for five minutes before carving. Sprinkle some fresh parsley on top if desired but this step isn't necessary if you want to keep things simple.

Tips & Tricks

1. Choose Fresh Ingredients: Always use high-quality ingredients whenever possible; they make all the difference in the final result. Opt for organic chicken breasts, buy locally sourced lemons, and consider using extra virgin olive oil instead of regular.
2. Serve with Sides: Lemon garlic chicken pairs wonderfully well with various side dishes such as roasted vegetables or a simple quinoa salad. You could also serve it alongside mashed potatoes or steamed broccoli for some added color and nutrition.
3. Vary the Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences. For instance, you can add more garlic or omit it altogether if you prefer less strong flavors; similarly, reducing salt levels might suit those watching their sodium intake better.

Why Choose This Recipe?

The combination of citrus and garlicky goodness in this dish creates a balance that's both refreshing and satisfying. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you don’t have much time but still want to treat your family or guests nicely.

In conclusion, whether you're looking to impress at dinner parties or just enjoy a hearty home-cooked meal after a long day, lemon garlic chicken is an excellent choice. Its simplicity and versatility mean that it caters to various dietary needs and occasions without requiring extensive preparation. Plus, the leftovers can be used in salads or sandwiches the next day!