Easy Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe

Lemon garlic chicken is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or served with a side salad for a healthy lunch. This recipe offers a simple yet delicious way to enjoy the flavors of lemon and garlic, which are known for their ability to enhance any meal.

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time: 35 minutes

Servings: 4 people

Ingredients:

1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
3-4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Lemon zest for garnish (optional)

Steps:

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit or 190 degrees Celsius.
Place the chicken breasts or thighs in a shallow dish that can hold them snugly. This will ensure even cooking throughout.
Mix lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, thyme (if using), salt, and pepper together until well combined. Pour this mixture over the chicken pieces ensuring each piece is coated thoroughly with the marinade.
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil or a lid if you have one. Let it sit for about 15 minutes at room temperature to allow flavors to meld together before baking.
Once ready, place the chicken in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30-35 minutes depending on thickness of your cuts (thicker pieces will take longer).
To check if it's done, insert a thermometer into the thickest part of the meat. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit or 74 degrees Celsius.
Remove from oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing or serving. This resting period allows juices to redistribute within the chicken making it more tender when served.

Tips:

If you prefer a crispier skin: After marinating, you could briefly air dry the chicken in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours before cooking. This helps create that perfect golden-brown crust while keeping meat juicy inside.
Varying flavors: Feel free to experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano instead of thyme for a change in taste profile without changing the core ingredients significantly.

Dietary considerations & nutritional information:

This recipe is relatively low in calories and fats but high on protein which makes it an excellent choice for those watching their waistline. However, please note that exact values might vary slightly based on specific brands of ingredients used or individual serving sizes.

For those following special diets such as keto, this dish fits well within most guidelines provided there are no added sugars or starches involved in preparation methods. Always consult with your doctor or nutritionist before making significant changes to dietary habits especially if pre-existing medical conditions exist.

Serving suggestions:

Pair it up with some steamed vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans for a balanced meal.
A simple side of rice or pasta can complement this dish nicely too depending upon personal preference.

Lemon garlic chicken is not only tasty but also quite nutritious. It provides essential nutrients such as vitamins B6 and C along with minerals like iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, etc., which are crucial for overall health maintenance.