Zesty Lemon Herb Chicken Recipe for Flavorful Dinners

The tantalizing aroma of lemon herb chicken wafts through the air, instantly turning any ordinary day into a culinary celebration. Imagine tender chicken infused with zesty lemon and vibrant herbs, sizzling away in your kitchen, beckoning everyone to gather around the table.

This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a flavor-packed experience that brings back memories of family dinners and summer barbecues when laughter and good food were the highlights of life. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family night or impressing guests at a gathering, this lemon herb chicken is sure to steal the show.

I remember the first time I made this lemon herb chicken; my family couldn’t stop raving about it! Their delighted reactions made me feel like a gourmet chef for the evening.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.

• Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor; it adds depth that dried garlic simply can’t match.

• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is essential for that zesty kick; bottled juice just won’t cut it.

• Dried Oregano: A staple in Mediterranean cooking, oregano complements the lemon beautifully and enhances the overall flavor profile.

• Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for its rich taste and health benefits; it’s perfect for marinating and cooking.

• Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that elevate all flavors; don’t skip these crucial additions!

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley not only adds color but also freshness that brightens every bite.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients on your countertop. Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water and pat them dry using paper towels. This helps ensure even cooking.

Create the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended; you should smell that glorious citrus aroma already!

Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts into a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over them and ensure they are fully coated. Let them marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes—longer if possible for maximum flavor.

Preheat Your Oven or Grill: If you’re baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If grilling, prepare your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures a nice sear on your chicken.

Cook Until Golden Brown: For baking: Place marinated chicken on a lined baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. For grilling: Cook each side about 6-7 minutes until grill marks appear.

Add Fresh Herbs Before Serving: Once cooked, remove from heat and let rest for about 5 minutes before slicing or serving whole. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for an added burst of color and flavor.

And there you have it! Your very own lemon herb chicken that’s sure to impress anyone lucky enough to join your dinner table!

Enjoy this delightful dish with roasted vegetables or over a bed of fluffy rice for an incredible meal!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes to absorb all those zesty flavors. Then, sear it in a hot pan to lock in moisture before finishing in the oven.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap herbs based on your taste; rosemary or thyme work great too! You can also add a splash of white wine during cooking for an extra layer of flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover lemon herb chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven to preserve its juiciness and flavor.

Sharing this dish with friends always sparks joy, especially when they take that first bite and their eyes light up in surprise. It’s moments like these that make cooking worthwhile.

FAQ

Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Absolutely! Thighs or drumsticks will work beautifully with this marinade.

How can I make it spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for extra heat.

What side dishes pair well with lemon herb chicken?

Serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to complete your meal.

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Lemon Herb Chicken

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Lemon Herb Chicken is a delightful dish that transforms simple ingredients into a spectacular meal. This recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts marinated in zesty lemon juice and fragrant herbs, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or entertaining guests. With its vibrant flavors and stunning presentation, this dish is sure to please everyone at your table.

• Author: Logan Reed
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Ingredients

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• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

1. Prepare your ingredients by rinsing and drying the chicken breasts.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Marinate the chicken in the mixture for at least 30 minutes in the fridge.
4. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
5. Place marinated chicken on a lined baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving and sprinkle with fresh parsley.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (approximately 6 oz)
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 330mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 34g
• Cholesterol: 110mg