Indulge in the bright, refreshing flavors of the Mediterranean with our mouthwatering Lemon Garlic Chicken recipe. This dish combines the tangy zest of lemon with the savory punch of garlic to create a meal that’s both simple and sophisticated. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this Lemon Garlic Chicken: A Zesty Mediterranean Classic is sure to become a family favorite.
The Magic of Lemon and Garlic
Lemon and garlic are staple ingredients in Mediterranean cuisine, known for their ability to elevate simple dishes into something extraordinary. This dynamic duo not only adds incredible flavor but also brings a host of health benefits to your plate. Our Lemon Garlic Chicken recipe showcases these ingredients at their best, creating a dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
Ingredients for Lemon Garlic Chicken
For 4 servings:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest of 2 lemons
- Juice of 2 lemons (about 1/4 cup)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For serving:
- Lemon wedges
- Greek Salad (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the marinade:
- In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, oregano, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the chicken:
- Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, making sure they’re well coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more intense flavor.
- Preheat the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cook the chicken:
- Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, reserving the marinade.
- Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Pour the reserved marinade and chicken broth over the chicken.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
- Finish and serve:
- Remove the skillet from the oven (careful, it’s hot!).
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
- Serve with lemon wedges and a side of Greek salad if desired.
Tips for Perfect Lemon Garlic Chicken
- Don’t marinate for too long: The acid in the lemon juice can start to break down the chicken if left for more than 4 hours, resulting in a mushy texture.
- Use a meat thermometer: This ensures your chicken is perfectly cooked without drying it out.
- Let it rest: Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking helps the juices redistribute, resulting in juicier meat.
- Adjust the garlic: Feel free to increase or decrease the amount of garlic based on your preference.
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a bit of heat.
Pairing Suggestions
Enhance your Lemon Garlic Chicken with these Mediterranean-inspired sides and drinks:
- Roasted Greek Potatoes
- Mediterranean Grilled Vegetables
- Tzatziki Sauce
- A glass of crisp white wine, such as Assyrtiko or Sauvignon Blanc
Health Benefits of Lemon Garlic Chicken
This dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also offers several health benefits:
- Lean protein: Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle maintenance and growth.
- Heart-healthy: Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.
- Immune-boosting: Garlic and lemon are both known for their immune-boosting properties.
- Antioxidant-rich: Lemons are high in vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage.
- Low-carb: This dish is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for various dietary needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They may require a slightly longer cooking time, so adjust accordingly.
Q: How can I make this dish dairy-free?
A: This recipe is naturally dairy-free. Just ensure any sides you serve with it are also dairy-free if needed.
Q: Can I grill this chicken instead of baking it?
A: Absolutely! Preheat your grill to medium-high and grill the marinated chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Q: What can I do with leftover Lemon Garlic Chicken?
A: Leftover chicken is great sliced over salads, stuffed into pita bread with veggies, or chopped and added to pasta.
Q: Is this recipe keto-friendly?
A: Yes, this Lemon Garlic Chicken is suitable for a ketogenic diet as it’s low in carbs and high in healthy fats and protein.
Conclusion
Lemon Garlic Chicken is a shining example of how simple, fresh ingredients can come together to create something truly spectacular. This dish embodies the essence of Mediterranean cooking – healthy, flavorful, and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal for guests, this recipe delivers on all fronts.
Remember, the key to this dish is in the quality of your ingredients. Use fresh lemons, good quality olive oil, and don’t be shy with the garlic! Feel free to adjust the flavors to your liking – that’s the beauty of home cooking.
For more delightful Mediterranean recipes and culinary adventures, be sure to explore our other articles on Mediterranean Groves. From Authentic Greek Moussaka to Homemade Hummus, we’ve got your Mediterranean cravings covered!
Kali orexi! (Bon appétit!)
