How to Make Delicious Lemon Garlic Chicken: A Simple yet Flavorful Recipe

Chicken dishes are always a hit in most households as they can be prepared in countless ways and paired with different side dishes. One of the most popular chicken recipes is lemon garlic chicken. This dish combines the zesty acidity of lemons with the rich, aromatic flavor of garlic to create a mouthwatering blend that complements any meal. Whether you're having it for dinner or as a light lunch, this recipe can be easily prepared and will surely satisfy your taste buds.

Let’s dive into how you can prepare delicious lemon garlic chicken right at home. The cooking time is approximately 20 minutes, which includes marinating the chicken in spices and herbs. It serves four people comfortably.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 3-4 cloves of garlic, minced finely
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper, freshly ground
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

To start with the process of making this delicious lemon garlic chicken, you will first need to prepare your ingredients. Wash and pat dry the chicken breasts before moving onto the next step. Next, in a mixing bowl or a large ziptop bag, combine the minced garlic cloves, zest and juice of one lemon, olive oil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.

Once all these ingredients have been thoroughly combined, add your four pieces of chicken breasts into the mixture. If using a ziploc bag, ensure to seal it tightly after adding the chicken. Alternatively, you can use a mixing bowl and cover with plastic wrap or a lid before refrigerating for at least two hours.

After marinating your chicken in this flavorful mix, it is time to cook them. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a shallow baking pan, place the chicken breasts, making sure they are evenly spaced apart for even cooking. Bake these in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), which is safe to eat.

If you prefer your lemon garlic chicken to be served with a bit of crispy exterior, consider searing it first on the stovetop. Heat some oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add the chicken breasts, and let them brown for about 3-4 minutes per side before transferring them to the oven.

While your chicken is cooking, you can also prepare your lemon garlic sauce if desired. In a small pan, combine the remaining lemon zest, juice, olive oil, and fresh parsley (if using). Let it simmer on low heat for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly. This will add an extra layer of flavor to serve with the chicken once it’s ready.

Once your chicken has cooked through completely, remove from oven. You can either transfer them directly onto plates or place them back into the baking pan to rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm alongside steamed vegetables and your favorite side dish like mashed potatoes or rice. The lemon garlic chicken will be absolutely delicious when paired with these simple accompaniments.

For those who love variety, you could also experiment by adding some herbs such as rosemary or thyme to the marinade for a different twist. Alternatively, if you want to make it spicier, you might consider incorporating a dash of cayenne pepper into your mixture.

Tips and Variations

If you're looking for an extra kick, you can always add some red pepper flakes during the cooking process or even include jalapeños if you enjoy spicy food. Another way to enhance this dish is by using different types of citrus fruits like lime or orange instead of lemons.

This recipe showcases how versatile chicken dishes can be. Lemon garlic chicken not only provides a burst of freshness but also offers great health benefits due to its high protein content and low fat profile. It's an excellent choice for those who want to eat healthy yet still enjoy delicious meals.

By following this simple guide, you'll have a fantastic homemade meal that can be enjoyed by both adults and children alike. So why not try making some lemon garlic chicken today? Your family will love it!