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Lemon Garlic Chicken

Lemon Garlic Chicken

This Lemon Garlic Chicken recipe delivers tender, juicy chicken breasts infused with bright lemon zest, bold garlic, and savory seasonings. Easy to prepare in under 30 minutes with simple ingredients, it’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual meals. Enjoy a flavorful, family-friendly dish that’s versatile enough to customize with various herbs, spices, and side dishes.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Marinade

  • Juice of 2 fresh lemons
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Garnish (optional)

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Extra lemon slices or zest for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well blended and fragrant.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or resealable bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours, to allow flavors to penetrate well.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a little olive oil. Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Cook each side for 5–7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Adjust cooking time depending on thickness.
  4. Rest and Serve: Transfer chicken to a plate and cover loosely with foil. Let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra squeeze of lemon if desired, then serve warm.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemon and garlic for the brightest flavor.
  • Marinate for at least 30 minutes to maximize tenderness and flavor.
  • Pat chicken dry before cooking to achieve a golden crust.
  • Adjust seasoning after cooking for balance.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Lemon Garlic Chicken, quick chicken recipe, easy chicken dinner, lemon chicken, garlic chicken, gluten-free chicken