Lemon Chicken Recipe
Tender chicken breasts are marinated in a heavenly blend of fresh lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, infusing each bite with a bright and refreshing taste. The marinade not only adds incredible flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat, ensuring that every bite is juicy and succulent.
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a dinner party, this lemon chicken recipe is sure to be a hit. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad for a complete and satisfying meal. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and elevate your dinner game with this irresistible lemon chicken recipe.
So, why wait? Head to your kitchen and start cooking up this delightful dish!
Lemon Chicken Recipe
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- 1 Cast Iron Skillet
Ingredients
- 4 Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ Fresh lemon juice
- 4 cloves Garlic minced
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 tsp Dried oregano
- 1 tsp Dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Whisk well to ensure all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and coat them evenly. Make sure the chicken breasts are fully submerged in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for maximum flavor.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat. Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off.
- Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Flip the chicken breasts only once to ensure they cook evenly.
- Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.
- Slice the lemon chicken and serve it with your choice of side dish. Enjoy!
❋ Kitchen Chaos Unlocked Tips
Tips for Cooking Lemon Chicken
- For extra flavor, add some lemon zest to the marinade. The zest gives the dish an intense lemony aroma and taste.
- If you don't have a grill or grill pan, you can also cook the chicken in a skillet over medium heat. Just make sure to cook it for the same amount of time on each side.
- To keep the chicken breasts juicy, avoid overcooking them. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature and remove them from the heat as soon as they reach 165°F (75°C).
- If you prefer bone-in chicken, you can use chicken thighs or drumsticks instead of chicken breasts. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Nutrition
Variations of Lemon Chicken Recipe
- Lemon Garlic Chicken: Add extra minced garlic to the marinade for a stronger garlic flavor.
- Lemon Herb Chicken: Substitute dried oregano and thyme with your favorite herbs, such as rosemary or basil.
- Lemon Pepper Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with freshly ground black pepper before grilling for a spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions for Lemon Chicken
Lemon chicken pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few suggestions to complete your meal:
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve the lemon chicken with a side of roasted vegetables, such as carrots, broccoli, and bell peppers. The roasted veggies add a delicious depth of flavor and complement the tanginess of the chicken.
- Lemon Rice: Prepare a fragrant lemon rice pilaf to accompany the chicken. Simply cook rice with lemon zest, lemon juice, and a touch of butter for a delightful citrusy twist.
- Light Salad: Serve the lemon chicken on a bed of mixed greens and toss it with a refreshing lemon vinaigrette. Add some cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and crumbled feta cheese for a satisfying and light meal.
Health Benefits of Lemon Chicken
Lemon chicken not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides several health benefits. Here’s why you should incorporate this dish into your diet:
- High in Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Vitamin C Boost: Lemons are packed with vitamin C, which supports a healthy immune system and helps the body absorb iron from plant-based foods.
- Antioxidant Power: Garlic and herbs used in the marinade contain antioxidants that help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals.
- Low in Calories: This lemon chicken recipe is relatively low in calories, making it a great option for those watching their weight or trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Lemon Chicken Recipe FAQs
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
- Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be used as a substitute for chicken breasts in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook.
- Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
- Yes, marinating the chicken overnight allows the flavors to penetrate the meat more deeply, resulting in a more flavorful dish. However, if you’re short on time, marinating for at least 30 minutes will still give you great results.
- Can I bake the lemon chicken instead of grilling it?
- Yes, you can bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Place the marinated chicken in a baking dish and cook until done.
Conclusion
Get ready to elevate your dinner game with this irresistible lemon chicken recipe. Bursting with tangy and zesty flavors, this dish is sure to impress your taste buds and leave you craving for more. With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a mouthwatering meal that will delight your family and guests. So, head to your kitchen and start cooking up this delightful dish today!