Perfectly Balanced Lemon Garlic Chicken

Keyword: perfectly balanced lemon garlic chicken

Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6

Lemon garlic chicken is a popular dish that has been loved by many for its simplicity and delicious flavors. Today, we are focusing on creating a recipe that will ensure the perfect balance of each ingredient to make your meal both satisfying and healthy. Whether you're looking to enjoy this as part of a balanced diet or simply because it tastes amazing, our perfectly balanced lemon garlic chicken is just what you need.

The key ingredients for achieving this perfectly balanced lemon garlic chicken include boneless chicken breasts (6), olive oil (2 tbsp), lemon juice (3-4 lemons), garlic cloves (5-6 depending on size), fresh parsley (1/4 cup), salt, pepper, and a dash of paprika. You will also need some basic kitchen tools such as a mixing bowl, whisk, oven dish, baking sheet, and tongs.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, prepare your ingredients. Slice each lemon into thin wedges and chop the parsley finely. Peel and mince the garlic cloves. Then, take your boneless chicken breasts and place them in a mixing bowl.

Mix the olive oil, minced garlic, salt to taste, pepper, and paprika together until well combined. Pour this mixture over the chicken and gently toss all of it so that every piece of chicken is coated evenly with the seasoning. This ensures that each bite will be equally flavorful.

After your chicken has been marinated for 15 minutes, arrange the pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Ensure they are spaced out enough to allow even cooking. Roast them in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until fully cooked and golden brown. Check frequently towards the end of this time so that you don’t overcook your chicken.

While the chicken is baking, prepare your lemon sauce. In a small bowl, mix the reserved lemon juice with some water to prevent it from turning brown once cut open. This step helps preserve the color and enhances its taste when served alongside the chicken. Once combined, set aside until needed.

Once done cooking, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. During this time, drizzle the warm lemon sauce over top to infuse even more flavor into each piece of meat. Garnish with fresh parsley for added freshness and color.

This perfectly balanced lemon garlic chicken recipe not only provides delicious taste but also offers numerous health benefits due to its lean protein content and vitamin C-rich lemons. It is an excellent choice for those who want something light yet satisfying on their plates. If you prefer a bit more heat, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes while marinating or serving with a side salad for a refreshing contrast in textures.

To enjoy this dish even more, try pairing it with steamed vegetables like broccoli or carrots which add color and nutrition to your meal. Alternatively, serve it over rice or quinoa for extra comfort and substance. Both options are easy to prepare and complement the flavors beautifully. For those seeking variety, you could experiment by using different types of chicken such as thighs or drumsticks for a richer texture.

Perfectly balanced lemon garlic chicken is more than just another meal; it’s about finding harmony between ingredients that work together synergistically. By following these steps carefully and letting the flavors meld during cooking, you can achieve a dish where every element complements each other perfectly creating a delightful culinary experience for everyone who enjoys it.