Perfectly Balanced Lemon Garlic Chicken with Vegetables

Keyword: lemon garlic chicken

Are you looking for a simple yet delicious meal that can be prepared in no time? Then look no further than our recipe for lemon garlic chicken, served with fresh vegetables. This dish is not only quick to make but also incredibly tasty and healthy. Whether you're hosting family dinner or simply enjoying your lunch break, this recipe is perfect for both occasions.

The preparation of the lemon garlic chicken takes approximately 15 minutes and it requires just a few ingredients such as skinless boneless chicken breasts, lemon zest, olive oil, garlic cloves, fresh parsley, salt, pepper, and some water. To make the vegetable side dish, you will need carrots, broccoli florets, bell peppers, and a little bit of butter.

First, preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Then, season your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, lemon zest, olive oil, and finely minced garlic. Place the seasoned chicken in a baking dish or oven-safe pan and pour water around it so that it forms a small amount of liquid to cook the chicken. Cover loosely with foil and place the dish into the preheated oven.

While waiting for your chicken to bake, prepare your vegetables. Cut the carrots diagonally into thin slices, cut the broccoli florets into smaller pieces if you prefer them that way, and slice the bell peppers in half lengthwise. In a separate pan, melt some butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the prepared vegetables and sauté until they turn bright green or just slightly tender.

After about 15 minutes of baking time, check your chicken for doneness by cutting into one of the breasts - if it is no longer pink in color, it's ready to be served. Once you are sure that your chicken has reached an internal temperature of at least 74°C (165°F), take it out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

To serve, plate up some of the lemon garlic chicken alongside the sautéed vegetables. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. This meal is not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavor thanks to the combination of lemon zest, garlic, and aromatic herbs like parsley. The lemon adds a bright acidity that cuts through the richness of the olive oil and butter used in both the chicken and vegetable preparations.

One serving per person consists of two pieces of chicken breast and a cup of sautéed vegetables. This meal serves four people; thus, you will need four chicken breasts for this quantity. Adjust according to your needs if fewer or more guests are expected. The lemon garlic chicken pairs wonderfully with a side of quinoa or rice for a complete and nutritious meal.

For those who might be wondering about the nutritional value, one serving offers around 300 calories per portion which includes protein from the chicken breast combined with healthy fats from olive oil as well as carbohydrates derived mainly from the vegetables. It is low in sugar and rich in essential vitamins like vitamin C found in bell peppers, folic acid present in broccoli, and antioxidants such as beta-carotene contained within carrots.

To take this dish up a notch, consider experimenting with different herbs or adding some additional seasonings once you have mastered the basic recipe. For example, incorporating fresh basil into the marinade could give your chicken an extra layer of flavor. Alternatively, you might try grilling instead of baking to infuse the exterior of your chicken with a smoky aroma.

In conclusion, lemon garlic chicken is more than just another easy weeknight meal; it's a testament to how simple yet versatile cooking can be when done right. With its balanced flavors and satisfying ingredients, this dish offers something for everyone at the table. So why not try making it today? You'll be rewarding yourself with a delicious and nutritious dinner that doesn't require too much effort or time.