Irresistible Lemon Herb Baked Chicken Recipe You’ll Love

Lemon Herb Baked Chicken is the culinary equivalent of a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine tender chicken bathed in zesty lemon and aromatic herbs, the kind of dish that makes your taste buds dance with joy. caramelized pear flatbread The moment you take that first bite, the crispy skin gives way to juicy meat, releasing a symphony of flavors that can only be described as pure bliss.

Now, let’s be honest—this dish isn’t just for fancy dinner parties or Instagram-worthy meals. It’s perfect for those nights when you want something delicious but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. delicious quinoa burgers Whether you’re hosting friends or simply treating yourself after a long week, Lemon Herb Baked Chicken promises to elevate any occasion with its irresistible charm.

Ingredients for Lemon Herb Baked Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Aim for about 3-4 chicken breasts; adjust based on your crowd size or hunger levels.
• Fresh Lemons: Choose bright yellow lemons; their zest is key for that citrusy punch.
• Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor while helping the chicken crisp up beautifully.
• Fresh Herbs (Thyme & Rosemary): These herbs add depth; fresh is best, but dried can work in a pinch.
• Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic brings out robust flavors; chop them finely or use a garlic press for ease.

For seasoning:

• Salt & Pepper: Essential for bringing out all the natural flavors of your chicken—don’t skimp

How to Make Lemon Herb Baked Chicken

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it warms up, grab a baking dish and give it a light spray with nonstick cooking spray so your chicken doesn’t feel like it’s stuck in a bad relationship.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

In a medium bowl, combine the juice of two lemons, minced garlic cloves, olive oil, chopped rosemary, and thyme. Whisk it all together like you’re trying to impress someone at a cooking show.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

Pat those chicken breasts dry with paper towels because nobody likes watery chicken. Then season them generously with salt and pepper on both sides before placing them in your prepared baking dish.

Step 4: Marinate Magic

Pour that zesty marinade over the chicken like you’re drenching it in sunshine. Let it soak up all those flavors for at least 30 minutes—if you have more time, even better!

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pop that baking dish into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You want it juicy but not swimming!

Step 6: Final Touches

Once baked, remove from the oven and let it rest for five minutes so all those tasty juices can settle back into the meat. Transfer to plates and drizzle with any remaining marinade from the baking dish for that finishing touch of flavor.

Enjoy this delightful Lemon Herb Baked Chicken with some steamed veggies or maybe over a bed of fluffy rice—whatever floats your boat! Your taste buds will thank you!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken in a zesty lemon-herb mixture to infuse flavor. While it marinates, prepare your sides, like roasted veggies or rice, then bake the chicken until golden brown and juicy. Timing is everything for delicious results.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in different herbs like rosemary or thyme based on your taste. Add some crushed red pepper for a kick or toss in veggies like bell peppers or asparagus during the baking process for extra flavor and nutrition.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover lemon herb baked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, ensuring it stays juicy and flavorful.

I once made lemon herb baked chicken for a family gathering, and everyone raved about how juicy and flavorful it was! It became my go-to dish for impressing guests without breaking a sweat in the kitchen.

FAQs :

What ingredients do I need for Lemon Herb Baked Chicken?

To make Lemon Herb Baked Chicken, gather chicken thighs or breasts, fresh lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and your favorite herbs like rosemary and thyme. Season with salt and pepper for added flavor. sweet potato tacos You can also include vegetables like asparagus or potatoes to roast alongside the chicken, enhancing the dish while adding nutrients.

How long does it take to bake Lemon Herb Baked Chicken?

Baking Lemon Herb Baked Chicken usually takes about 25 to 35 minutes at 400°F (200°C). The exact time depends on the thickness of the chicken pieces. To ensure they are fully cooked, use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

Can I use other herbs in this recipe?

Absolutely! While this recipe highlights lemon, rosemary, and thyme, you can experiment with other herbs such as oregano, parsley, or basil. Each herb will impart a unique flavor profile to your Lemon Herb Baked Chicken. Feel free to mix and match based on your taste preferences.

How should I store leftovers from Lemon Herb Baked Chicken?

Store any leftover Lemon Herb Baked Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Make sure it cools completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Conclusion for Lemon Herb Baked Chicken :

Lemon Herb Baked Chicken is an easy and delicious dish that brings vibrant flavors to your table. With just a few simple ingredients like chicken, lemon juice, and fresh herbs, you can create a meal that’s both healthy and satisfying. Remember to adjust cooking times based on the thickness of the chicken pieces for perfect results every time. Whether enjoyed as a family dinner or meal prep option, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and leave everyone wanting more.

Print

Lemon Herb Baked Chicken

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Lemon Herb Baked Chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with zesty lemon and aromatic herbs. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this easy recipe promises to impress with its juicy chicken, infused with fresh garlic and a delightful citrus marinade. Serve it alongside your favorite sides for a satisfying meal that looks as good as it tastes.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 2 fresh lemons (juiced and zested)
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tsp fresh thyme (chopped)
• 2 tsp fresh rosemary (chopped)
• 4 garlic cloves (minced)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. In a bowl, whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, olive oil, thyme, and rosemary.
3. Pat chicken breasts dry, season generously with salt and pepper, then place in the baking dish.
4. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it's well coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (170g)
• Calories: 309
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 115mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 42g
• Cholesterol: 122mg