Lemon Herb Garlic Chicken Recipe
This Lemon Herb Garlic Chicken is a vibrant, flavorful dish with a perfect balance of zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and fresh herbs. The chicken is marinated in a tangy lemon and herb mixture, then grilled or baked to tender, juicy perfection. This dish is simple enough for a weeknight meal yet impressive enough for guests. Pair it with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or your favorite grains for a complete meal.
Ingredients:
For the chicken marinade:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (from about 1 lemon)
1 tbsp lemon zest
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh, finely chopped)
1/2 tsp dried rosemary (or 1 tsp fresh)
1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional for a bit of tang)
Salt and pepper, to taste
For garnish (optional):
Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
Lemon slices
Instructions:
1. Prepare the marinade:
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, dried oregano, thyme, rosemary, Dijon mustard (if using), salt, and pepper. Whisk until the marinade is well-mixed and the herbs are evenly distributed.
2. Marinate the chicken:
Place the chicken breasts (or thighs) into a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken and seal the bag or cover the dish.
Refrigerate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to 2 hours (for maximum flavor, marinate it for 1-2 hours).
3. Cook the chicken:
Grill Method:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear. If you’re using chicken thighs, it may take a bit longer.
Pan-Fry Method:
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Oven Method:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Place the marinated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill, pan, or oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil and lemon slices for a fresh, vibrant touch.
Serve with your choice of sides, like a green salad, quinoa, or roasted vegetables.
Nutritional Information (per serving, assuming 4 servings):
Calories: 280
Protein: 32g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g
Cholesterol: 75mg
Sodium: 180mg
Vitamin A: 6% DV
Vitamin C: 25% DV
Calcium: 2% DV
Iron: 6% DV
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary depending on the size of the chicken breasts and specific ingredients used.)
Notes:
Chicken Type: You can use chicken breasts, thighs, or even drumsticks for this recipe. Thighs tend to be juicier and more forgiving if overcooked, but breasts are leaner and cook faster.
Marinating Time: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 1-2 hours. However, even 30 minutes of marination will still yield good results. Do not marinate for more than 4 hours, as the lemon can start to break down the chicken and make it mushy.
Grilling Tips: If grilling, consider oiling the grill grates to prevent the chicken from sticking. You can also use a grill basket to keep the chicken from falling apart.
Make it Spicy: If you like a little heat, add red pepper flakes to the marinade or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Make-Ahead: The chicken can be marinated a day ahead and kept in the refrigerator. The leftovers are great for salads or sandwiches the next day.
Serving Ideas: Pair the chicken with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, couscous, or rice pilaf for a balanced meal. A side of hummus or tzatziki would also complement this dish perfectly.
FAQs:
1 Can I use boneless skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs. They have more flavor and are more forgiving if overcooked, but they may take a little longer to cook than chicken breasts.
2 Can I bake the chicken without marinating it?
While marinating adds extra flavor, you can bake the chicken without marinating it. Just season the chicken with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs right before cooking.
3 Can I grill the chicken without skin?
Yes, grilling skinless chicken is absolutely fine. Just make sure to oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
4 Can I substitute fresh herbs with dried herbs?
Yes, dried herbs work well in this recipe. Use about one-third of the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh (e.g., 1 tsp dried thyme instead of 1 tbsp fresh thyme).
5 How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The best way to check for doneness is by using a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part. Alternatively, you can cut the chicken open, and the juices should run clear.
Total Time:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Marinating time: 30 minutes to 2 hours
Cook time: 15-25 minutes (depending on cooking method)
Total time: 45 minutes to 2 hours (including marination time)
This Lemon Herb Garlic Chicken recipe is the perfect way to enjoy a flavorful and healthy meal with minimal effort. The ci
trusy marinade with garlic and herbs infuses the chicken with incredible taste, making it a winner for any dinner table. It’s versatile, easy to prepare, and sure to become a favorite!