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Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe

4.4 from 123 reviews

A zesty and flavorful Lemon Garlic Chicken recipe featuring tender chicken marinated in fresh lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, then baked to golden perfection. This dish is perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner, delivering bright citrus notes combined with aromatic garlic and herbs.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)

Marinade

  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 12 lemons)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or 1 tablespoon fresh, chopped)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh, chopped)
  • Salt, to taste (about 1 teaspoon)
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste (about 1/2 teaspoon)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade: In a medium bowl, combine the fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well blended to create a flavorful marinade.
  2. Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to 2 hours to allow the flavors to infuse.
  3. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the chicken.
  4. Arrange chicken for baking: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Place the chicken breasts on a lightly greased baking sheet or in a baking dish, leaving space between each piece.
  5. Bake the chicken: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The chicken should be golden on top and juicy inside.
  6. Rest and serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute. Serve warm with your favorite sides.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, add a tablespoon of freshly chopped parsley before serving.
  • To keep chicken moist, avoid overbaking; use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
  • This recipe works well with bone-in chicken thighs; just increase baking time to about 35-40 minutes.
  • Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Keywords: Lemon Garlic Chicken, Baked Chicken Recipe, Healthy Chicken Dinner, Citrus Marinated Chicken