Delicious Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe

In this recipe article, we will guide you through creating a delightful Lemon Garlic Chicken dish that is sure to become a favorite in your home. This simple yet flavorful recipe offers an easy and delicious way to enjoy chicken with a vibrant lemony kick. The cooking time for this dish is approximately 25 minutes, and it serves 4 people generously.

Ingredients you will need include:

• 1/2 cup of fresh lemon juice
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic, minced finely
• 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
• 4 chicken breasts (bone-in or skin-on)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)

Begin by preparing the marinade. In a large bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, thyme, and black pepper until thoroughly combined. Ensure all ingredients are well mixed to allow even flavor distribution.

Clean your chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. Once you have prepared your marinade, place the chicken in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is fully coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.

While the chicken is marinating, preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with aluminum foil or parchment paper. This step ensures that the bottom of the dish won't burn during cooking.

Remove the chicken from its marinade and arrange it on the prepared baking sheet. If you have extra marinade, spoon some over the top of each piece for added flavor. Season lightly with salt according to your taste preference. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 18-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

For best results, allow the chicken to rest for about five minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices inside the meat to redistribute throughout and keeps them juicy when cut into.

To enhance this dish further, garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot alongside some steamed vegetables or a side of mashed potatoes for an extra dimension of flavor.

Enjoy your freshly prepared Lemon Garlic Chicken! This versatile meal not only tastes great but also provides essential nutrients like protein, vitamins B6 and C, and minerals such as phosphorus and zinc that are crucial for overall health. It's perfect for busy weeknight dinners or casual weekend family gatherings.

If you wish to vary this recipe slightly, consider adding slices of lemon directly on top of the chicken before baking. This adds an extra burst of fresh citrus flavor without altering any other component significantly.

For those looking to reduce calorie intake while still enjoying a tasty meal, consider using grilled rather than baked preparation method. Grilling imparts a distinct smoky taste which can complement this dish nicely when paired with lemon and garlic.

Cooking time: 25 minutes (including marinating), servings: 4 people.