Simple Yet Delicious Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe

Lemon garlic chicken is a popular dish that combines two key flavor elements: lemon for tanginess and garlic for robustness. This simple yet delicious recipe can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights when you want to impress your family or friends.

Ingredients (for 4 servings):

• 1 whole chicken (about 2 pounds), cut into pieces
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced finely
• Zest of one lemon
• Lemon juice from half a lemon
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Time: 20 minutes for preparation; 15 minutes in the oven

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken.

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it's heating, prepare all of your ingredients. Cut up the chicken and place in a large mixing bowl. Add minced garlic, lemon zest, olive oil, salt, pepper, and half of the lemon juice into the bowl with the chicken pieces. Mix everything together until each piece of chicken is well coated.

Step 2: Roast in Oven.

Once your oven has reached temperature, transfer the seasoned chicken to a baking tray. Ensure that all parts of the chicken are evenly spread out on the tray. Place it in the preheated oven and let it roast for approximately 15 minutes.

Step 3: Check for Doneness.

The chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C). To check this, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of one piece of chicken. If it’s not yet ready, return the dish to the oven and continue roasting for another few minutes until fully cooked.

Step 4: Serve Hot.

Your lemon garlic chicken should now be golden brown on top. Remove from the oven and let it rest for about five minutes before serving. The resting time allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring you get a juicier and more flavorful bite.

Enjoy Your Meal!

This dish goes well with a variety of sides such as steamed vegetables or a simple green salad. Its flavors are versatile enough that they can complement almost any type of side dish you prefer.

Lemon garlic chicken is not only delicious but also incredibly healthy due to its low calorie content and rich in essential vitamins like vitamin C from the lemon. It's an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.

Tips & Variations:

1. For extra flavor: Add fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or parsley right before serving.
2. Variation for different tastes: Replace half of the lemon juice with apple cider vinegar if you prefer a more sour taste. Alternatively, consider adding some honey to balance out the acidity.
3. Leftovers: Any leftover chicken can be used in sandwiches or salads the next day. Store it properly in an airtight container within two days of cooking for best quality.

The simplicity and versatility make lemon garlic chicken a go-to meal for many households. Whether you're having friends over, preparing lunch during a busy week, or just enjoying some quiet time alone at home, this dish provides both flavor and nutrition. Experiment with different variations to find what suits your taste buds best!