How to Make a Perfect Lemon Chicken: A Flavorful Meal for Every Occasion

Lemon chicken is one of the most beloved and easy-to-prepare dishes worldwide. The fresh tangy flavor of lemons combined with succulent chicken makes it an ideal choice for those looking for something light yet satisfying. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or simply preparing a simple weeknight meal, this recipe offers versatility and ease.

Ingredients

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb/450g)
3 lemons (freshly squeezed juice from two lemons; one lemon for garnish)
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced finely
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking spray or a few tablespoons of butter for baking dish

Instructions

To begin making your lemon chicken, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a small bowl, mix together the lemon juice from two lemons with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well combined.

Next, season both sides of each chicken breast generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Carefully coat the chicken breasts in the lemon mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated on all surfaces. Once done, place the chicken into a baking dish that has been lightly sprayed or buttered for easy removal later.

Place your seasoned chicken breasts into the preheated oven and bake until an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is reached, which should take approximately 20-25 minutes. Keep checking to ensure it does not overcook – you want your chicken to be juicy but thoroughly cooked through.

When done cooking, remove the baking dish from the oven and allow the lemon chicken breasts to rest for about five minutes before serving. During this time, if desired, garnish with sliced fresh lemon as a final touch of flavor and presentation.

How Many Servings Does This Recipe Yield?

This recipe yields 4 servings of approximately 6 ounces (170g) per portion. Each serving contains two chicken breasts, so plan accordingly if adjusting the quantities to suit your household size.

Cooking Time

Preparation time: About 20 minutes
Baking time: Approximately 20-25 minutes at 350°F (175°C)
Total preparation and cooking time: Around one hour from start to finish.

Tips for a Perfect Lemon Chicken

For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like dill or parsley during the last few minutes of baking. These will add freshness without overpowering the lemon taste.
To make sure your chicken doesn't dry out in the oven, ensure it is not overcrowded in the dish while cooking; give each piece some room to breathe!
For a healthier option, replace butter with olive oil spray for greasing the baking dish. This reduces fat content without affecting taste.

Why Choose Lemon Chicken?

Lemon chicken offers versatility in both flavor and presentation. It pairs well with various side dishes such as steamed vegetables, quinoa salad, or a simple green vegetable like broccoli. Because of its lightness, it can be served as part of a balanced meal that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables. Moreover, this dish is adaptable enough to cater to different dietary requirements – including those who prefer a lower calorie option by reducing the amount of butter used.

Conclusion

Lemon chicken stands out for its simplicity and versatility. Its delightful yet refreshing taste can complement any meal. Whether it's for dinner with loved ones or something you whip up quickly during busy workdays, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Try these tips to create a perfect lemon chicken that will become one of your go-to recipes.

Enjoy cooking and eating!