This EASY LEMON GARLIC CHICKEN RECIPE absolutely dazzles with juicy, golden chicken bursting with bright lemony zest and aromatic garlic in every single bite. The simplicity of the ingredients hides the absolute flavor magic that happens when citrus, fresh herbs, and olive oil come together. This dish is a genuine weeknight superhero that’s also elegant enough for your next dinner party. The best part? It’s versatile, speedy, and sure to become a go-to favorite for everyone at your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a handful of vibrant ingredients for this recipe, but don’t let that fool you—each one plays an essential role in making this dish irresistible. From juicy chicken and zippy lemons to fragrant garlic and fresh herbs, it’s all about pulling maximum flavor from the simplest pantry staples.
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: The perfect blank canvas—stays moist and soaks up all the marinade flavors beautifully.
- Fresh Lemons (zest and juice): Go for ripe, juicy lemons; they bring the essential brightness and tang that defines this recipe.
- Garlic Cloves (minced): Use plump, fresh cloves for the best aroma and bold, savory flavor.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Acts as the luscious base for your marinade, keeping everything moist and golden as it cooks.
- Fresh Herbs (parsley or thyme): Chopped herbs add a pop of color and that irresistible garden-fresh finish.
- Salt and Pepper: The right amount elevates the chicken without overpowering delicate flavors; season generously to taste.
How to Make EASY LEMON GARLIC CHICKEN RECIPE
Step 1: Whip Up the Marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice and zest, finely minced garlic, extra virgin olive oil, freshly chopped herbs, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Take a quick inhale—the aroma alone lets you know something delicious is about to happen! This marinade is the backbone of the EASY LEMON GARLIC CHICKEN RECIPE and sets the stage for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Tuck the chicken breasts into the bowl and make sure they’re evenly coated on all sides. For the absolute best flavor, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes—but if you have the time, up to two hours will really let those citrusy, garlicky flavors sink in. The acidity of the lemon juice gently tenderizes the chicken, so every bite is extra juicy.
Step 3: Preheat Your Grill or Skillet
When you’re ready to cook, fire up your grill or preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Give it a couple of minutes to get nice and hot—you want to hear that satisfying sizzle as soon as the chicken hits the surface, which means you’ll lock in all the moisture instantly for that beautiful, golden crust.
Step 4: Cook to Perfection
Arrange the marinated chicken breasts on the hot grill or skillet in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for about 6 minutes per side. Resist the urge to poke and prod—the less you touch, the more delicious browning happens. Check for doneness: The chicken is ready when it reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part. Juicy, fragrant, and golden—truly the EASY LEMON GARLIC CHICKEN RECIPE at its finest.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Give the chicken a few moments to rest after cooking—this keeps all those wonderful juices inside. Slice, spoon any reserved pan juices or a little extra fresh lemon over the top, and serve hot. Each piece should be glistening, aromatic, and packed with flavor.
How to Serve EASY LEMON GARLIC CHICKEN RECIPE
Garnishes
Sprinkle your finished chicken with extra chopped fresh herbs or a touch more lemon zest for a fresh, fragrant pop. A few lemon wedges on the side let everyone squeeze as much citrus as they like. For an extra restaurant-worthy touch, a drizzle of the leftover pan juices brings everything together beautifully.
Side Dishes
This EASY LEMON GARLIC CHICKEN RECIPE is wonderfully versatile so you can pair it with fluffy rice, garlicky mashed potatoes, or roasted veggies like asparagus or zucchini. Crusty bread is also perfect for soaking up every bit of the vibrant marinade left on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the chicken and serving it family-style on a big platter with herbs, bright lemon slices, and seasonal vegetables all around. Or layer it over a fresh salad sprinkled with feta and olives for a Mediterranean-inspired dinner. Even tucked inside a pita with a dollop of tangy yogurt sauce, this chicken is sensational.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any leftover chicken cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to three days, staying juicy and flavorful—perfect for quick lunches or easy meal prep later in the week.
Freezing
If you want to save chicken for longer, arrange cooled pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a resealable freezer bag. It’ll keep beautifully for up to two months. Just remember to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
For the best results, reheat gently. Warm the chicken in a covered skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of broth or water, or in the oven at 325°F until heated through. This keeps the meat moist and ensures the fabulous lemon-garlic flavor shines.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully with the EASY LEMON GARLIC CHICKEN RECIPE. They’ll be just as juicy with a slightly richer flavor. Just adjust the cooking time by a few minutes to ensure they’re cooked through.
Is it possible to bake the chicken instead of grilling?
Yes, you can bake the marinated chicken in a 400°F oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Baking is a fantastic hands-off method and still delivers delicious, tangy results.
What kind of fresh herbs are best?
Parsley and thyme are both classic choices, but feel free to mix in or swap out with basil, dill, or cilantro depending on what you have. The herbs add a bright, vivid finish to the EASY LEMON GARLIC CHICKEN RECIPE.
Does this recipe work well for meal prep?
It couldn’t be better. Cook up a batch early in the week, then slice the chicken and tuck it into salads, wraps, or grain bowls for instant, flavorful meals all week long. The bold lemon and garlic keep it tasting fresh even after a day or two.
Can I make the marinade in advance?
Definitely—whip up the marinade a day ahead and keep it in the fridge, ready to go. When you’re ready to cook, just toss in the chicken and marinate as directed. It’s a huge time-saver for busy schedules!
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that delivers big on flavor and ease, the EASY LEMON GARLIC CHICKEN RECIPE will not disappoint. With a handful of everyday ingredients and a simple process, it brings sunshine to your dinner table any night of the week. Give it a try and see just how quickly it becomes a new favorite!
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EASY LEMON GARLIC CHICKEN RECIPE
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Lemon Garlic Chicken is a bright and flavorful dish that effortlessly elevates any dinner table. Infused with the zesty notes of fresh lemons and aromatic garlic, this easy-to-make recipe guarantees juicy, tender chicken every time. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, it pairs wonderfully with fluffy rice or roasted vegetables, making it a versatile favorite for families and friends alike. With minimal ingredients and straightforward preparation, you’ll impress everyone with your culinary skills without spending hours in the kitchen. Get ready to savor each bite!
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 1.5 to 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
Marinade:
- 2 large fresh lemons (zested and juiced)
- 4 large garlic cloves (minced)
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup chopped fresh herbs (parsley or thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Mix Marinade: In a bowl, mix lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, chopped herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate Chicken: Marinate the chicken in the mixture for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours for better flavor).
- Preheat Grill: Preheat grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook Chicken: Cook chicken for about 6 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Remove from heat, let rest briefly, then serve hot.
Notes
- For added flavor variations, try marinating with other citrus fruits like lime or orange.
- Incorporate vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini during cooking for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
