![To make this simple lemon garlic chicken, gather these ingredients: - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 2 lemons (zested and juiced) - 3 tablespoons olive oil - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) These ingredients work together to create a bright and zesty flavor. The lemon and garlic blend perfectly, making every bite a treat. You can enhance your dish with some optional add-ins. Consider these: - A pinch of red pepper flakes for heat - Fresh rosemary for a fragrant twist - Sliced olives for a briny kick - Cherry tomatoes for added sweetness These add-ins can give your chicken a unique touch and make it more exciting. For this recipe, you'll need some basic kitchen tools: - A large mixing bowl - A baking dish - A sharp knife for slicing - A cutting board - A whisk for mixing the marinade Having these tools ready will help make your cooking process smooth and easy. - Step 1: Preheat the oven Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step warms up the space for even cooking. - Step 2: Marinade preparation In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. This blend creates a bright and tasty marinade. - Step 3: Marinating the chicken Take the chicken breasts and place them in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece gets coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish. Let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. You can also marinate it for up to 2 hours for even more flavor. Once the chicken is marinated, take it out of the fridge. Place the chicken in a baking dish. Bake it in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. Check for doneness by ensuring the center is no longer pink. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). After baking, remove the chicken from the oven. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. For a beautiful presentation, garnish with fresh parsley and add a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad for a colorful meal. This dish looks and tastes amazing! You can find the full recipe details in the [Full Recipe]. To cook chicken just right, follow a few key steps. First, let the chicken marinate well. This adds flavor and keeps it juicy. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, but two hours gives the best taste. When cooking, check the internal temperature. Use a meat thermometer. Aim for 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, cut the thickest part to check for pink. You can easily boost the flavor of your lemon garlic chicken. Try adding fresh herbs like rosemary or basil. These add a nice touch. You can also mix in some red pepper flakes for heat. If you like a sweet twist, add honey or maple syrup. This balances the lemon's acidity. How you serve the chicken can make a big difference. After baking, let the chicken rest for five minutes. This keeps it moist. Slice the chicken and arrange it on a colorful plate. Add a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. Place lemon wedges around the chicken for a pop of color. This makes your meal look inviting and tasty. For the full recipe, check the details above! {{image_2}} You can change up the flavors of your lemon garlic chicken. Try adding herbs like rosemary or basil for a fresh taste. For a spicy kick, mix in some red pepper flakes. If you love sweetness, drizzle honey over the chicken before baking. You can also add mustard for a tangy twist. Each change can make a new dish! Not all recipes need the same ingredients. You can swap chicken breasts for thighs if you prefer. If you don’t have fresh lemons, use bottled lemon juice instead. Olive oil can be replaced with avocado oil for a different flavor. If you lack thyme or oregano, any dried herbs can work. Each swap allows you to make this dish your own. You don't have to bake this chicken. Grilling gives it a smoky taste and nice grill marks. Heat your grill to medium-high and cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side. For a skillet method, heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side, until it reaches 165°F. Each method gives a unique flavor and texture. For the full recipe, check out the complete details above. After you make the lemon garlic chicken, let it cool first. Place the chicken in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, try freezing it. To reheat, use the oven or a microwave. If using an oven, set it to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in a baking dish. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 15 minutes. For the microwave, heat on medium for 2-3 minutes. Check to see if it's hot all the way through. For freezing, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place the wrapped chicken in a freezer bag. Remove as much air as you can. Label the bag with the date. This chicken can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to use, thaw it overnight in the fridge. By following these storage tips, you'll enjoy your simple lemon garlic chicken even after the first meal. For the full recipe, check out the earlier sections! The cooking time for chicken breasts is about 25 to 30 minutes at 400°F. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and stays juicy. Use a meat thermometer to check. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. This way, you know it's safe to eat. Yes, you can use thighs instead of breasts. Thighs have more fat, which makes them tender and juicy. They may need a few extra minutes to cook. Check the internal temperature to be sure they reach 165°F. This will ensure your meal is safe and tasty. To marinate chicken overnight, mix the marinade ingredients as usual. Place the chicken in a resealable bag or a dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it covers all sides. Seal the bag or cover the dish. Then, refrigerate it overnight. This adds great flavor to your chicken. Yes, this recipe is gluten-free. All the ingredients, like chicken, garlic, and lemon, have no gluten. If you add any sides or sauces, check their labels to be sure. This way, you can enjoy your meal without worry. If you want to see the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe for all the details! This blog post covered the key steps to cook chicken perfectly. I shared the ingredients, preparation, and tips. You learned how to enhance flavors and present your dish well. Variations allow you to try different tastes and methods. Plus, proper storage will keep leftovers fresh. In conclusion, with practice and care, you can master cooking chicken every time. Enjoy exploring new flavors and techniques!](https://pureeatsnow.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/7e3dbcb0-a0c2-43ac-9396-7f8faad3ba77-250x250.webp)
Simple Lemon Garlic Chicken
Elevate your dinner game with this Zesty Lemon Garlic Chicken recipe! Bursting with vibrant flavors, this dish features juicy chicken breasts marinated in a delicious blend of garlic, lemon, and herbs. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it's easy to prepare and sure to impress.