How to Make a Delicious Lemon Garlic Chicken

Lemon garlic chicken is a classic dish that has been a favorite for many because of its tangy and savory flavors. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a quick yet tasty meal during busy weekdays or as an elegant dinner party dish. Follow along with this detailed guide to create your own homemade lemon garlic chicken.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4-6 people

Ingredients

• 4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• Zest and juice of 2 lemons
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt to taste
• Paprika for garnish
• Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions

To begin, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil. Set aside.

In a large bowl, combine the minced garlic, lemon zest and juice, olive oil, salt, and paprika. Mix well until thoroughly combined.

1. Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is evenly coated. Allow it to sit for 15 minutes at room temperature so that the flavors can blend together.
2. After marinating, place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake until fully cooked. To check if your chicken is done, insert a meat thermometer into one of the thickest parts; it should read at least 165°F (74°C). If you don't have a meat thermometer, cut through the center to ensure there is no pink color inside.
3. Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting period helps distribute the juices evenly throughout the chicken pieces.

Tips & Variations

If you're looking to add more vegetables into your meal without increasing cooking time significantly, consider roasting some cherry tomatoes or asparagus alongside your chicken breasts while they're in the oven. Simply place them on another baking sheet and drizzle with a little extra olive oil, salt, and pepper before placing it in the oven.

• For those who prefer their lemon garlic flavor stronger without adding more lemon zest or juice, consider using lemon butter instead of just the marinade. You can make homemade lemon butter by combining softened unsalted butter with finely chopped garlic, lemon zest, and a splash of lemon juice according to your preference.
• A sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions on top provides not only visual appeal but also adds freshness and additional depth in flavor.

Health Benefits

This dish is relatively low in calories and saturated fats while providing essential nutrients such as protein, vitamin C from the lemon, and iron present naturally within the chicken. It’s especially beneficial for those following a balanced diet that includes lean proteins like this one.

The combination of garlic offers various health benefits including improved immunity due to its antimicrobial properties and potential anti-inflammatory effects. Lemon provides not only refreshing taste but also helps in detoxification processes inside your body making it an excellent ingredient to include frequently in your meals.

Conclusion

Lemon Garlic Chicken is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and dietary preferences. Whether you're looking for something simple yet delicious or want to impress guests at dinner parties, this recipe offers an easy solution. With its unique blend of lemony tang and garlic aroma, it's sure to become one of your favorite go-to recipes!

Enjoy your meal and don't forget to share the love by trying out this amazing dish with friends and family! Bon Appétit!