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!

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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.

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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!)

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

(Approximate values)

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 35g
• Carbs: 3g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 0g

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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!