Zesty Lemon-Garlic Chicken

Zesty Lemon-Garlic Chicken: A Perfect Weeknight Dinner

There’s something magical about a simple, flavorful dish that turns an ordinary evening into a memorable one. Our Zesty Lemon-Garlic Chicken does just that, and it’s a perfect weeknight dinner for busy moms who want to make their family’s taste buds dance with delight.

Imagine this: juicy, tender chicken marinated in a zesty lemon-garlic sauce, cooked to perfection, and served alongside your favorite side dish. The aroma alone will transport you to a Mediterranean oasis, and the taste…well, you’ll have to try it for yourself to believe it.

The secret to this dish lies in its vibrant, flavorful marinade. Fresh lemon juice and zesty garlic come together to create a mouthwatering combination that elevates the humble chicken breast to new heights.

What makes this recipe even better is its versatility. You can grill, bake, or pan-sear the chicken, depending on your preference and available time. Each method imparts a slightly different texture and flavor, so feel free to experiment and find your favorite way to cook this delightful dish.

Marinating the chicken is key to infusing it with incredible flavor. Ideally, you’ll want to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but if you’re short on time, even 15 minutes will do the trick. For those planning ahead, you can marinate the chicken overnight for a deeper, more intense flavor.

When it comes to side dishes, the possibilities are endless. Pair your Zesty Lemon-Garlic Chicken with a light, refreshing salad for a healthy, satisfying meal. Or, serve it over a bed of fluffy quinoa or creamy mashed potatoes for a more indulgent, comforting dish.

Don’t forget to garnish your chicken with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, and a lemon wedge for that final touch of brightness and acidity.

As you gather around the dinner table with your loved ones, take a moment to savor the delicious flavors and aromas of your Zesty Lemon-Garlic Chicken. You’ve created a meal that’s not only mouthwateringly good but also brings joy and nourishment to those you care about most.

So, go ahead and treat yourself and your family to this delectable, easy-to-make dish. The memories you create together will last a lifetime, and the smiles on their faces will be all the thanks you need.

Zesty Lemon-Garlic Chicken

Course: Main CourseCuisine: Mediterranean

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

30

minutes

Calories

350

kcal

A vibrant, mouthwatering chicken dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners and sure to impress your family.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• Juice of 2 lemons

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp paprika

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish

• Lemon wedges, for serving

Directions

• In a medium bowl, whisk together lemon juice juice, minced garlic, olive oil, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
• Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over the chicken. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.
• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove chicken from the marinade and place in a baking dish. Discard any remaining marinade.
• Bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If desired, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes to achieve a golden-brown color on the chicken.
• Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
• Enjoy your Zesty Lemon-Garlic Chicken with your favorite side dishes.

Notes

• For an even zestier flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.
• Grill the chicken for a smoky flavor and beautiful grill marks.
• Try adding some red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.

This Zesty Lemon-Garlic Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes, such as roasted or steamed vegetables, a simple green salad, or a flavorful grain like quinoa or couscous. For a Mediterranean-themed dinner, serve the chicken alongside some warm pita bread, hummus, and a tangy tzatziki sauce.

The bright, fresh flavors of this chicken dish complement these sides perfectly, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal. You can also try pairing the chicken with a chilled glass of white wine, like a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a fruity Pinot Grigio, to enhance the zesty lemon flavors and balance the garlicky notes.