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Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe

4.5 from 150 reviews

This Lemon Garlic Chicken recipe features juicy chicken marinated in a zesty blend of fresh lemon juice, aromatic garlic, olive oil, and fragrant herbs. It’s baked or grilled to perfection, resulting in a flavorful and tender dish that’s perfect for a healthy dinner or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Marinade

  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons mixed dried herbs (such as thyme, oregano, rosemary)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, dried herbs, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated evenly. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 1 to 2 hours, to allow flavors to infuse.
  3. Preheat Cooking Equipment: If baking, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). If grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates to prevent sticking.
  4. Cook the Chicken: Remove chicken from the marinade and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or directly on the grill. Bake for 20-25 minutes or grill for about 6-7 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through.
  5. Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes to retain juices. Serve warm, optionally garnished with fresh herbs or lemon slices.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of honey or Dijon mustard to the marinade.
  • Use fresh herbs if available for a more vibrant taste.
  • Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts; adjust cooking time accordingly.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure food safety.

Keywords: lemon garlic chicken, baked chicken breast, healthy chicken recipe, easy chicken dinner, lemon marinade chicken