Simple Yet Delicious Lemon Garlic Chicken

This simple yet delicious Lemon Garlic Chicken recipe is a perfect choice for busy weeknight dinners or casual Sunday lunches.

The combination of fresh lemon and garlic not only adds an amazing flavor but also enhances the overall taste. This dish can be served with steamed vegetables, quinoa, or rice to make it more filling.

Here are all you need: 1 whole chicken (about 3 lbs), olive oil, salt, pepper, fresh lemon zest, garlic cloves, and a dash of herbs like thyme or rosemary. You'll also need a skillet for cooking the chicken on medium heat.

Cooking Time

This dish takes approximately 45 minutes to prepare including marinating time, which is about 30 minutes.

Serving Size: This recipe will yield approximately 6 servings.

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Mix together olive oil, salt, pepper, lemon zest, minced garlic, and fresh herbs in a small bowl. Rub this mixture all over the chicken.
Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Bake for 35 minutes until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches at least 165°F.
Cooking time: After removing from the oven, let it rest for about five minutes before slicing.
Serving suggestion: You can garnish with fresh herbs and serve over a bed of steamed vegetables or alongside a side salad for a complete meal.

Tips & Variations:

Marinate overnight: If you have time, marinating the chicken in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours can enhance the flavor even more. This also tenderizes the meat slightly making it more tender.
Glaze the chicken: After baking, brush some melted butter or olive oil over the chicken and return to the oven for another few minutes to glaze the top of the chicken for a shiny finish.
Incorporate different vegetables

Add chopped onions and bell peppers along with the chicken. This will infuse more flavor into your dish while providing a colorful contrast on the plate.

Nutritional Information:

Per serving (based on 6 servings): Calories: ~300, Protein: ~45g, Fat: ~18g, Carbohydrates: ~7g. Please note that these values can vary depending on the exact ingredients used.

Health Benefits:

This dish is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. Fresh lemon provides vitamin C and antioxidants which help boost immunity while garlic contains sulfur compounds known to support heart health. Chicken, being a good source of protein, helps in building muscle mass and repair tissues.

Conclusion:

Incorporating this simple yet delicious Lemon Garlic Chicken into your weekly menu can be an excellent choice for everyone looking for healthy yet tasty options. Whether you are preparing it as part of a family dinner or hosting friends over, it is sure to become a favorite dish. Its ease of preparation and versatility make it suitable for any occasion.

Enjoy cooking this flavorful meal and exploring the world of simple yet delicious recipes!

Note: Always ensure that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to guarantee food safety when consuming.