Perfectly Balanced Lemon Chicken

Keyword: lemon chicken recipe

Looking for a delicious and healthy meal that combines the tangy zest of lemons with succulent chicken? Try our easy-to-follow lemon chicken recipe! This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether you're hosting a casual dinner party or just looking to treat yourself. The preparation time is about 30 minutes, and it serves four people.

This lemon chicken is not only quick but also full of flavor. It’s a great way to use up leftovers like roasted vegetables or potatoes that might be sitting in your fridge. Plus, the tangy sauce pairs well with any side dish you choose, making this recipe incredibly versatile!

Ingredients

• 4 skinless and boneless chicken breasts (about 600 grams)
• 3-4 large lemons, zested and juiced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• ½ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
• Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly oil a baking dish large enough to hold the chicken breasts in one layer.

Step 2: In a small bowl, mix together lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Set aside this marinade until you are ready to use it.

Step 3: Place the chicken breasts in the prepared dish. Pour half of your lemon mixture over each piece of chicken, making sure that all sides of the chicken are covered with some of the marinade. You can also gently rub a little extra on top for an even better flavor.

Step 4: Bake in the preheated oven until the chicken is thoroughly cooked, which should take about 25 minutes or so. A good way to check if your chicken is done is by ensuring that it has reached a minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can do this using an instant-read thermometer.

Step 5: Once the chicken breasts are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them rest for about five minutes. While they’re resting, you may want to sprinkle some fresh parsley on top if desired. This will add a burst of freshness to each bite!

Optional Side Dishes

To make this meal even more satisfying, consider serving it with some roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes. These can be easily prepared in the same oven as your chicken by adding them to another baking dish alongside olive oil, salt, and pepper.

1. For roasted vegetables: Slice carrots, broccoli florets, and red bell peppers into bite-sized pieces. Toss these with some olive oil and seasonings before placing them in the oven for about 20-25 minutes at 425°F (218°C).
2. To make mashed potatoes: Peel and chop one large potato, boil it until soft, then mash it along with some butter and milk.

Enjoy your perfectly balanced lemon chicken! Not only does this dish bring out the best in the flavors of both lemons and chicken, but it also provides a refreshing change from more traditional meals. Feel free to experiment by adding other herbs or spices as you like; perhaps some dill, thyme, or even a touch of honey for extra sweetness.

Tips & Variations

Looking to vary the taste and texture of your lemon chicken? Here are a few ideas:

• Cooking Method: Instead of baking it in an oven, you can also cook this dish on a grill. Just marinate the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and fresh herbs before grilling for about 20 minutes.
• Sauce Variation: For those who want to add more depth to their sauce, consider incorporating some capers or olives into your marinade. They will provide a bit of brine that enhances the acidity of the lemon and balances out the richness of chicken perfectly.

In conclusion, this simple yet satisfying recipe for lemon chicken is sure to become one of your go-to meals when you're looking for something light but full of flavor. With just 30 minutes in the kitchen, you can create a meal that will impress everyone at your table. Serve it with your favorite side dishes and enjoy a delightful dining experience!

Note: Always remember proper food handling practices to ensure safety and hygiene when preparing this dish or any other recipe.