Baked Lemon Garlic Chicken with Fresh Herbs Recipe

If you’re looking for a flavorful and healthy dish that’s easy to prepare, look no further than Baked Lemon Garlic Chicken with Fresh Herbs. This succulent chicken is marinated in a zesty lemon-garlic mixture and infused with the freshness of herbs, making it a delightful main course for any occasion. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients

To create this delectable dish, you will need the following ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 2 lemons
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Lemon slices, for garnish
• Fresh herbs, for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. In a medium bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, rosemary, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. This marinade will not only add flavor but also keep the chicken moist while baking.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

2. Place the chicken breasts in a large zip-lock bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

3. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature will help achieve a golden-brown finish on the chicken while keeping it juicy inside.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

4. Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it in a baking dish. Pour any remaining marinade over the top. Arrange lemon slices on top of the chicken for added flavor and presentation.

5. Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). To achieve a nice golden crust, you can broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking.

Step 5: Serve

6. Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender chicken. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with your choice of sides.

Cooking Tips

• Ingredient Selection: Choose fresh herbs for the best flavor; dried herbs can be used in a pinch but won’t have the same vibrant taste. Look for high-quality olive oil as it elevates the overall dish.

• Serving Suggestions: Pair your Baked Lemon Garlic Chicken with a refreshing side salad, roasted vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes for a well-rounded meal.

• Storage: Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Variations and Substitutions

• Herb Variations: Experiment with other herbs like basil or oregano to customize the flavor to your liking.

• Chicken Thighs: For a richer flavor, try using bone-in chicken thighs instead of breasts. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

• Citrus Alternatives: Feel free to substitute lemons with limes or oranges for a unique twist on the marinade.

Conclusion

Baked Lemon Garlic Chicken with Fresh Herbs is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings fresh, vibrant flavors to your dining table. Each bite bursts with the essence of lemon and herbs, making it a dish that will linger in your memory long after the last bite.

Encourage your friends and family to join in the fun of cooking and experimenting with this recipe. They might just discover their new favorite dish!

For more culinary inspiration, check out our articles on marinades and herb gardening to elevate your cooking game further. Happy cooking!

Tags

recipe, cooking tips, food trends, lemon garlic chicken, fresh herbs, easy dinner ideas, healthy recipes, chicken recipes