Delicious Quick & Easy Lemon Chicken Recipe

Lemon chicken is a popular dish loved by many due to its tangy and zesty flavor. This versatile recipe pairs well with various sides such as roasted vegetables or a fresh salad, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients required to prepare this delicious lemon chicken are simple: boneless, skinless chicken breasts, olive oil, garlic cloves, lemon juice, and lemon zest. You'll also need some salt, pepper, dried oregano, paprika, and fresh parsley. The cooking time for this dish is approximately 30 minutes, while the total preparation time includes around 20 minutes of hands-on work.

To start with, preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C). Take a baking sheet or a large pan that can fit all chicken breasts and lightly coat it with olive oil. Slice two lemons into thin rounds, then place them on the bottom of the baking sheet for extra flavor. Place the chicken breasts over the lemon slices.

In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic cloves (about 4), finely grated lemon zest from one whole lemon, and freshly squeezed lemon juice from another lemon. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and paprika to taste. Once well combined, brush this marinade over the chicken breasts using a spoon or basting brush.

After applying the marinade, sprinkle fresh parsley leaves on top of each piece of chicken for garnish. Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and roast the lemon chicken for about 20 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). To check if it's done, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of one breast; remove when it reads the desired temperature.

Allow the roasted lemon chicken to rest on the baking sheet for about five minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices within the dish to redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful.

• Tip: For a healthier version, you can grill or pan-sear the chicken breasts instead of roasting them in the oven.
• Add some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra layer of flavor if desired.

If you want to elevate this dish further, consider serving it alongside mashed potatoes or a simple green vegetable like steamed broccoli. The tangy lemon chicken will complement these side dishes beautifully and create a balanced meal that satisfies both the palate and the eyes with its vibrant colors.

For those looking to make this recipe even more nutritious, incorporate whole grain rice into your dinner selection. Whole grains provide essential nutrients like fiber and vitamins B and E which contribute significantly towards maintaining good health. Pairing lemon chicken with brown rice can turn this meal into a complete source of protein, carbohydrates, fats, minerals, and antioxidants.

To make this recipe child-friendly, consider using mild herbs such as dill or chives instead of the oregano and paprika. Also, keep in mind that children may enjoy smaller pieces of chicken cut into bite-sized chunks. This way, they can easily pick up their food while eating without feeling overwhelmed by larger portions.

Cooking lemon chicken is not only enjoyable but also quite economical since most ingredients used are readily available at local grocery stores or markets. Additionally, leftovers from this dish store well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, making it perfect for preparing ahead of time during busy weekdays when you need a quick and tasty meal solution.

When hosting friends over, lemon chicken makes an excellent choice as part of your menu. Its bright taste is sure to impress guests who appreciate fresh flavors. Serve this dish alongside other appetizers such as bruschetta or caprese salad for a delightful start to any gathering.

In conclusion, whether you're looking for a simple weeknight dinner or something special for company, lemon chicken offers versatility and deliciousness. With minimal effort and ingredients, you can create this delightful meal at home using this easy recipe guide provided here today.