Description
Classic lemon chicken showcases zesty Mediterranean flavors with tender grilled chicken marinated in garlic, herbs, and fresh lemon juice. Succulent pieces pair perfectly with rice or salad, offering a light and refreshing meal that transports diners to sunny coastal regions.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
- 4 tablespoons lemon juice (from 2 lemons)
- 1 lemon zest
- 3 tbsps olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the vibrant marinade by whisking olive oil, minced garlic, freshly squeezed lemon juice, fragrant lemon zest, dried oregano, salt, and cracked black pepper in a mixing bowl.
- Arrange chicken breasts in a spacious baking dish, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
- Pour the zesty marinade over the chicken, meticulously coating each piece by gently turning them to absorb the flavors.
- Allow the chicken to marinate at room temperature for 15-20 minutes, enabling the ingredients to penetrate and tenderize the meat.
- Heat the oven to 400F (200C) while the chicken marinates, creating an optimal cooking environment.
- Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and roast for 22-25 minutes, monitoring the internal temperature until it reaches 165F (74C) for perfect doneness.
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 3-4 minutes to redistribute the juices and ensure maximum moisture.
- Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the golden-brown chicken for a bright, herbaceous finish.
- Serve immediately, presenting the aromatic lemon-infused chicken as a delightful main course.
Notes
- Marinate chicken longer for deeper flavor, ideally 2-4 hours in the refrigerator for maximum taste absorption.
- Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts of uniform thickness to ensure even cooking and prevent dry edges.
- Swap olive oil with avocado oil for a higher smoke point and slightly different nutritional profile.
- Add lemon slices on top during baking to intensify citrus notes and create a beautiful presentation.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13.7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg