Simple and Flavorful Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe

Lemon garlic chicken is a delicious and healthy dish that many people enjoy. This versatile meal can be served with rice or pasta, and it pairs wonderfully with various vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. The key ingredients for this recipe are chicken breasts, lemon, olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and fresh parsley. Cooking time: 30 minutes, servings: 4.

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, prepare all necessary ingredients. Quarter two lemons; you will use half of them for the marinade and reserve the other half for garnish. Slice four cloves of garlic thinly.

In a large mixing bowl, combine one lemon quarter, 2 tablespoons olive oil, three minced garlic cloves, salt to taste, pepper to taste, and freshly chopped parsley. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated into a paste. Place the chicken breasts in this mixture, ensuring that both sides of each breast are coated evenly. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes if you have time; otherwise, proceed after five minutes.

After preparing the marinade and letting your chicken breasts rest inside, arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Arrange two lemon quarters cut-side down between the chicken pieces. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). You can check this by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of one piece.

To serve, take the chicken out from the oven and let it rest for five minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in juicier slices when serving. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves and extra lemon quarters if desired. Serve immediately over a bed of steamed vegetables or alongside your favorite pasta.

For added variety, consider trying different types of herbs such as rosemary or thyme for additional flavor. You may also add some capers or olives to the marinade for a Mediterranean twist. This recipe is adaptable depending on what ingredients you have available at home and personal preference.

The lemon garlic chicken not only tastes great but also offers several health benefits due to its use of fresh ingredients such as lemons, garlic, and herbs. Garlic helps boost your immune system while being rich in antioxidants which can reduce inflammation. Lemon is low in calories yet high in vitamin C, aiding in collagen production and supporting a healthy heart. By cooking this dish yourself instead of purchasing prepared meals, you gain control over the salt content and overall nutritional value.

Another advantage of making this recipe at home is its affordability compared to restaurant counterparts or takeout options. Using basic ingredients like chicken breasts, olive oil, garlic cloves, and fresh herbs results in a meal that can be enjoyed for less money than dining out. Plus, preparing your own food encourages mindful eating habits, making you more aware of portion sizes and ingredient quality.

Experimenting with this simple yet satisfying dish allows you to explore various flavor combinations without complicating the process too much. Whether you're looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself to a home-cooked meal, lemon garlic chicken is an excellent choice. Try it out today and see how easily you can create a tasty and nutritious dinner!

Remember that cooking should be enjoyable - so don't hesitate to adjust flavors according to your taste buds’ preferences! If you love this recipe, feel free to share it with friends and family members who might enjoy trying something similar. Happy cooking!