Include in Print View:

Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe | Easy, Flavorful & Healthy Dinner Idea

This zesty Lemon Garlic Chicken recipe is a perfect weeknight meal. With tender chicken breasts marinated in fresh lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, this quick and healthy recipe is packed with flavor. Perfect for anyone looking for a low-carb, gluten-free dinner option. Serve with roasted veggies or over a bed of quinoa for a complete meal.

What Makes This Recipe So Good?

  • Bursting with Flavor: The combination of fresh lemon juice, garlic, and herbs gives the chicken a bright, tangy flavor with a savory depth.
  • Healthy and Nutritious: It's low-carb, gluten-free, and packed with protein, making it perfect for those following specific diets or anyone looking for a wholesome meal.
  • Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and a simple cooking process, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights.
  • Versatile: You can serve it with almost anything—roasted vegetables, salad, rice, or quinoa. It's a dish that adapts to your sides.
  • Perfectly Tender: The marinade helps keep the chicken juicy and tender, ensuring a satisfying bite every time.
  • Great for Meal Prep: It reheats beautifully, making it a great option for make-ahead lunches or dinners.

Key Ingredients

  • Chicken Breasts – The protein base, tender and juicy when cooked.
  • Fresh Lemon Juice – Adds a bright, tangy flavor to the marinade.
  • Garlic – Infuses the dish with a savory, aromatic taste.
  • Olive Oil – Helps to coat and marinate the chicken, keeping it moist.
  • Herbs (like parsley or thyme) – Adds fresh, earthy flavor to complement the lemon and garlic.

Chefs Helpful Tips

  • Marinate Longer for Extra Flavor: If time allows, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is even better. This helps the flavors really penetrate the meat.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and garlic make a big difference in taste compared to bottled or pre-minced versions.
  • Pound Chicken Breasts for Even Cooking: Lightly pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness ensures they cook evenly and prevents dry, overcooked spots.
  • Don't Overcook: Chicken breasts can dry out if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for perfectly moist chicken.
  • Let the Chicken Rest: After cooking, allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy.
  • Broil for Extra Crispiness: For a slightly crispy, golden-brown finish, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
  • Double the Marinade for Basting: Consider making extra marinade to use as a sauce or for basting during cooking. Just be sure to cook any marinade used for raw chicken to a safe temperature before serving.

More Recipes To Check Out…

Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 20 mins
Rest Time 5 mins
Total Time 35 mins
Cooking Method:
Cuisine:
Courses: ,
Difficulty: Beginner
Cooking Temp: 190  C
Servings: 4
Calories: 300
Best Season: Suitable throughout the year
Dietary: dairy free, Gluten Free, High Protein, Keto, Low Carb, Non Vegetarian, Paleo, Sugar Free
Description

This zesty Lemon Garlic Chicken is a perfect weeknight meal. With tender chicken breasts marinated in fresh lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, this quick and healthy recipe is packed with flavor. Perfect for anyone looking for a low-carb, gluten-free dinner option. Serve with roasted veggies or over a bed of quinoa for a complete meal.

Ingredients
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 to 2 pounds total)
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano (or 1 tablespoon fresh oregano)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tbsp for garnish, optional
Instructions
  1. 1
    Prepare the Marinade

    In a bowl, combine the lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.

  2. 2
    Marinate the Chicken

    Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight for more flavor).

  3. 3
    Preheat the Oven

    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

  4. 4
    Bake the Chicken

    Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it in a greased baking dish. Reserve the marinade for basting. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

  5. 5
    Baste (Optional)

    If desired, baste the chicken with the reserved marinade halfway through the cooking time for added flavor.

  6. 6
    Broil for Crispiness (Optional)

    For a golden finish, switch to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

  7. 7
    Rest the Chicken

    Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps keep it juicy.

  8. 8
    Serve

    Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve with your choice of sides.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

Amount Per Serving
Calories 300kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 20g31%
Saturated Fat 3g15%
Cholesterol 120mg40%
Sodium 600mg25%
Potassium 500mg15%
Total Carbohydrate 2g1%
Protein 35g70%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: lemon garlic chicken, healthy dinner, quick meals, gluten-free, low carb, high protein, easy chicken recipe, weeknight dinner, dairy-free, zesty chicken, baked chicken recipe, chicken breasts, keto-friendly, savory garlic chicken, mediterranean chicken, meal prep ideas
Read it online: https://mykitchentreats.com/recipe/lemon-garlic-chicken-recipe-easy-flavorful-healthy-dinner-idea/
Courtney