Quick and Easy Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe

Keyword: quick and easy lemon garlic chicken recipe

Looking for a delicious yet simple dinner option? Quick and easy lemon garlic chicken is perfect if you're short on time but still want to enjoy a flavorful meal. This dish is both tasty and versatile, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. The combination of fresh lemon zest and rich garlic provides a delightful balance that elevates ordinary chicken into something truly special.

The preparation time for this recipe is approximately 20 minutes, and the total cooking time is around 35-40 minutes. It serves four people comfortably as a main course with sides like roasted vegetables or a simple green salad.

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken (about 3 pounds)
• 6 cloves of garlic, minced
• Zest and juice of one lemon
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

First, preheat your oven to 400°F. Rinse the chicken thoroughly under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper according to taste.

Step 2: Marinating the Chicken

Once your mixture is ready, place the chicken in a large shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour over the marinade and massage gently so that all parts of the chicken are well coated with the lemon garlic flavor. Allow it to marinate for at least 15 minutes; this will help the flavors penetrate deeper into the meat.

Step 3: Roasting the Chicken

Lay the seasoned chicken breast-side up on a wire rack set over a roasting pan. Roast in the preheated oven until fully cooked and golden brown, about 25-30 minutes for each half of the bird. You can check if it's done by inserting an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh; make sure it reaches at least 165°F.

Alternatively, you could also grill this dish outdoors using a barbecue instead of roasting inside your home oven. Simply place the marinated chicken on clean grates and cook over medium heat until internal temperature registers at least 165°F when checked with an instant-read thermometer.

Step 4: Serving Suggestions

To serve, slice the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces or strips if you prefer. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for added color and freshness. Serve alongside steamed broccoli florets or a simple Caesar salad for a balanced meal.

Tips for Success

1. Ensure that the marinade has sufficient acidity from lemon juice to balance out its richness.
2. For extra flavor, consider adding a few fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme during the roasting process.
3. If you want to make this dish ahead of time, you can prepare and marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until ready to roast.

Quick and easy lemon garlic chicken isn't just about speed—it's also about quality. By following these straightforward steps, you'll achieve a dish that tastes as good as it looks. Enjoy your meal!

Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes (Preparation + Cooking)

Number of Servings: Four people

Taste and Texture: Juicy, tender chicken with a tangy lemon garlic profile.

This recipe can be adjusted based on personal preferences. If you like more garlicky flavor, add additional cloves to the marinade. For those who enjoy sweeter dishes, consider adding a touch of honey or brown sugar along with the lemon zest and juice for an extra layer of complexity.