Perfectly Balanced: A Simple Lemon Chicken Recipe

Keyword: lemon chicken

Leaving the taste buds craving for something light yet delicious? If you’re looking to prepare a dish that is both flavorful and healthy, then look no further than this simple yet delightful lemon chicken. Whether you're hosting dinner or just making it for yourself during a cozy night in, this recipe guarantees a hit with the family. Here’s how to easily make your own perfect lemon chicken.

Cooking Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4

Ingredients You'll Need

• 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.2 kg)
• 3 lemons
• ½ cup of butter
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• ¼ tsp salt or to taste
• ⅛ tsp black pepper or to taste
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)
• Sprigs of fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Steps to Follow: Crafting Your Lemon Chicken

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F. While the oven is heating, take a large mixing bowl and cut the lemons into smaller slices. Squeeze the juice of one lemon into the mixture along with 1 tbsp of lemon juice for extra flavor (optional).

Add minced garlic, butter, salt, pepper, and the sliced lemon pieces to the chicken breasts in the bowl. Mix thoroughly to ensure all components are evenly distributed.

1. Place the marinated chicken into a baking dish. Ensure that there’s enough space for each piece of chicken so they do not stick together during cooking.
2. Cover the chicken with aluminum foil, allowing it to rest in this covered state for approximately 10 minutes before cooking begins.
3. Once your oven has reached the desired temperature, remove the foil from the baking dish and place the dish into the preheated oven. Cook until an internal temperature of at least 165°F is achieved - which usually takes around 35 to 40 minutes depending on chicken size.

Why Lemon Chicken?

One key reason for enjoying this dish lies within its health benefits. Lemons are rich in vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that boosts the immune system. Combining them with tender and juicy pieces of chicken provides not only an explosion of flavor but also nutritional value.

Tips for Extra Flavors

To add extra zest to your meal, consider garnishing your cooked lemon chicken with fresh parsley sprigs or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. You can also serve it alongside a side salad or roasted vegetables like asparagus or sweet potatoes.

Conclusion: Your Family’s New Favorite

The simplicity and versatility of this recipe make lemon chicken an ideal choice for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners. It is comforting to know that this dish offers both taste and health benefits, making it a perfect addition to any meal plan.

Cooking your own meals not only saves money but also enhances the culinary experience by allowing you to customize flavors according to personal preferences. Try this easy-to-make, delicious recipe at home and see for yourself why it’s become a staple in many households!