🍋 Baked Lemon Garlic Chicken: A Zesty, Juicy, and Effortless Dinner! 🍗
Looking for a dinner that’s bursting with flavor but requires minimal effort? Say hello to Baked Lemon Garlic Chicken! This dish is a game-changer—tender, juicy chicken infused with the bright, tangy flavors of lemon and garlic, all baked to perfection. It’s healthy, delicious, and perfect for busy weeknights or even a fancy dinner party. Let’s get baking! 😀
Thank you for reading this post, don’t forget to subscribe!Why You’ll Love This Recipe 💛
✅ Quick and Easy: Just 10 minutes of prep, then let the oven do the work!
✅ Healthy and Flavorful: Packed with fresh ingredients and no heavy sauces.
✅ Versatile: Pair it with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
✅ Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or impressing guests.
Ingredients 🛒
(Serves 4)
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
- Zest and juice of 2 lemons 🍋
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick!) 🌶️
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon slices (for garnish and extra flavor!)
Directions 👩🍳
1. Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, oregano, thyme, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken
- Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish. Pour the lemon-garlic marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well-coated.
- Let it marinate for 10-15 minutes (or longer if you have time!).
3. Bake to Perfection
- Arrange lemon slices on top of the chicken for extra flavor and a beautiful presentation.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
4. Garnish and Serve
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with extra lemon wedges for a zesty finish.
Serving Suggestions 🍽️
- Pair with Sides: Serve with roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
- Make it a Bowl: Slice the chicken and add it to a grain bowl with quinoa, avocado, and a drizzle of tahini.
- Add Bread: Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious lemon-garlic sauce. 🥖
Storage and Reheating Tips 🥡
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes. Add a splash of water or lemon juice to keep it moist.
Why This Recipe Works 💡
- Bright and Fresh: The lemon and garlic create a vibrant flavor profile that’s both tangy and savory.
- Simple Ingredients: No fancy stuff here—just pantry staples and fresh lemon!
- Oven Magic: Baking locks in the juices, making the chicken tender and flavorful.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving) 📊
(Approximate values)
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 35g
- Carbs: 3g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 0g
Final Thoughts 💭
Baked Lemon Garlic Chicken is the ultimate weeknight dinner—quick, healthy, and bursting with flavor. It’s a meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious, and it’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation.
So preheat that oven, grab a lemon, and let’s bake our way to a delicious dinner! 🍋✨
Tried this recipe? Share your thoughts in the comments below or tag us on social media—we’d love to see your creations! 📸
