Are you ready to elevate your dinner with a zesty lemon chicken recipe? This dish is not only flavorful but also easy to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for weeknight meals or special occasions. With its bright citrus notes and savory undertones, this lemon chicken will tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests. Gather your ingredients and let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
– Lemon slices for serving
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is 10 minutes, and cooking time is 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 chicken breast) contains approximately:
– Calories: 250
– Protein: 35g
– Fat: 10g
– Carbohydrates: 3g
– Fiber: 0g
This nutritional value is based on a standard serving size for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix lemon juice, chicken broth, olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts in a baking dish.
4. Pour the lemon mixture over the chicken, ensuring they are well coated.
5. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
7. Check the internal temperature—it should reach 165°F (75°C).
8. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.
9. Drizzle some of the cooking juices over the sliced chicken.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier option. Additionally, using lime juice instead of lemon will give a different but equally delicious flavor. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can replace oregano for added aroma.
Serving and Pairings
Serve this lemon chicken with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. A light white wine pairs beautifully, enhancing the citrus flavors of the dish.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure it’s well wrapped.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the chicken can make it dry; always check for doneness.
- Not marinating the chicken beforehand can lead to less flavor.
- Using bottled lemon juice may result in a less fresh taste.
- Skipping the resting time can lead to juices leaking out.
- Not adjusting seasoning to your taste can make the dish bland.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh herbs for a brighter flavor.
- Let chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes for deeper flavor.
- Pair with seasonal vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Experiment with adding capers for a briny twist.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw the chicken completely before marinating and cooking for even flavor distribution.
What can I substitute for chicken broth?
You can use vegetable broth or water with a pinch of salt if you don’t have chicken broth on hand.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). A meat thermometer is the best tool to ensure accuracy.
Can I add vegetables to the baking dish?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli will enhance the dish and create a one-pan meal.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, lemon chicken is great for meal prep. It stores well and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
Conclusion
This lemon chicken recipe is a delightful way to bring brightness to your dining table. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, it’s perfect for both casual family dinners and elegant gatherings. Enjoy this dish with your favorite sides and watch it become a new favorite in your home!
Lemon Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Lemon slices for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix lemon juice, chicken broth, olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Place chicken breasts in a baking dish.
- Pour the lemon mixture over the chicken, ensuring they are well coated.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
- Check the internal temperature—it should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Drizzle some of the cooking juices over the sliced chicken.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices before serving.
Nutrition
