Simple yet Flavorful Lemon Garlic Chicken

Lemon Garlic Chicken is a classic recipe that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean to your kitchen. Whether you're hosting dinner or simply looking for an easy, weeknight meal, this dish will satisfy your taste buds with its balance of tart lemon and savory garlic. The cooking time is approximately 30 minutes, yielding enough servings for 4 people.

To start, gather all the ingredients needed:

• 4 skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• Salt to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Making Lemon Garlic Chicken is straightforward. Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven heats, prepare the chicken: season both sides of each piece lightly with salt.

In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice until well combined. This will serve as the marinade for your chicken breasts. Once the mixture is ready, brush generously over all sides of the chicken. Ensure that the entire surface area of each breast gets an even coating of this flavorful blend.

Place the seasoned chicken into a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until fully cooked through. You can check doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of a chicken breast; it should read at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

If you prefer to sauté the chicken instead of baking, heat some olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should still reach at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Once your chicken has finished cooking, remove it from the oven or skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making sure every bite is juicy and flavorful.

Serve Lemon Garlic Chicken with steamed vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli florets, or a simple side of rice if you'd like to make it more substantial. The lemony, garlicky sauce that clings to the chicken pairs beautifully with these sides, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.

To add a bit of extra flavor complexity to this dish, consider adding some capers or olives during the last few minutes of cooking. Capers, especially, provide an unexpected briny note that complements the citrus and savory elements wonderfully.

For those who want a head start on their meal preparation, you can prepare the marinade ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you're ready to use it. This way, all you need is to remove the chicken from the fridge and mix everything together when you're ready to cook.

Another tip for making this dish extra special is to garnish with fresh parsley just before serving. It adds a pop of color and freshness that enhances the presentation and flavor of your meal.

Tips & Variations

Lemon Garlic Chicken can easily be adapted to suit different dietary preferences:

2. Vegan or vegetarian option: Replace the chicken with a couple of portobello mushrooms. These absorb the marinade beautifully and add a satisfying texture.
4. To make it healthier, reduce the amount of oil used in the recipe. Opt for non-stick cooking spray if you're sautéing; this helps cut down on fats without sacrificing flavor.
6. For those who enjoy spicy flavors, add a touch of red pepper flakes or some crushed chili peppers to the marinade for an extra kick.

Experiment with different herbs and spices based on what you have available in your pantry. Herbs like thyme, rosemary, or even tarragon can be added for additional depth. You might also find that lemon zest alone is enough to brighten up the dish without needing fresh juice.

Lemon Garlic Chicken is perfect for anyone who loves quick yet impressive meals. It's an excellent way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet and enjoy a balanced, delicious meal. Try this recipe today and let its refreshing flavors transport you to a sunny Mediterranean coast!

Note: Always use caution when handling raw chicken to avoid cross-contamination and ensure proper cooking time for safety.