Ah, Lemon Chicken! This dish is like a burst of sunshine on a plate. I can’t tell you how often this savory delight has graced my dinner table! There’s just something about the tangy zing of fresh lemons that elevates a simple chicken dish into something truly spectacular. Whenever I make it, my family and friends rave about how flavorful and refreshing it is. Plus, it reminds me of those magical summer evenings spent with loved ones, dining al fresco while the sun sets.
I adore this recipe because it’s uncomplicated yet delicious — perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering. The aroma of lemon and herbs wafting through the house? Nothing short of heavenly! Let’s dive right in, shall we?
What’s in Lemon Chicken?
Chicken Thighs: I prefer using thighs because they are juicy and tender. Plus, they stay moist during cooking. Look for skin-on, bone-in thighs for an extra layer of flavor!
Fresh Lemons: The star of the show! Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the dish, while the lemon zest adds a punchy fragrance. I always grab organic lemons when I can — they tend to have more flavor.
Garlic: Ah, garlic! This aromatic wonder adds depth to the dish. I usually go for fresh garlic, but pre-minced works too in a pinch!
Olive Oil: A good quality olive oil not only helps to cook the chicken, but it also contributes richness. I’m a fan of extra virgin olive oil; it’s so much tastier!
Fresh Herbs: I love using parsley and thyme. Fresh herbs bring life to the dish! Dried herbs also work but use them sparingly since they are more concentrated.
Chicken Broth: This is used to deglaze the pan and create a lovely sauce. You can use low-sodium broth if you’re watching salt intake.
Is Lemon Chicken Good for You?
Absolutely! This Lemon Chicken is both nutritious and flavorful. The combination of chicken, fresh lemons, and herbs not only tastes amazing, but it also packs some health benefits.
Chicken Thighs: They’re a great source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health. Plus, the fat in the thighs helps to keep you satiated.
Lemon Juice: Loaded with Vitamin C, lemon juice can help bolster your immune system. The antioxidants in lemons also support skin health and may improve heart health.
Garlic: It’s not just for flavor! Garlic has numerous health benefits, including potential anti-inflammatory properties and improved cholesterol levels.
Just keep in mind that depending on how much olive oil you use, the dish can be a bit higher in calories. But hey, it’s all about balance!
Ingredients
– 4 Chicken Thighs (bone-in and skin-on preferred)
– 2 Lemons (juiced and zested)
– 4 Garlic Cloves (minced)
– 1/4 cup Olive Oil (extra virgin is best)
– 1/4 cup Chicken Broth
– 1 tablespoon Fresh Thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried)
– 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (chopped)
– Salt and Pepper to taste
Servings: This recipe serves 4.
How to Make Lemon Chicken?
1. **Prep the Chicken:** Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. This helps in achieving that yummy crispy skin!
2. **Marinate:** In a bowl, combine the lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and rub the marinade all over them. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the fridge for even more flavor.
3. **Preheat the oven:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
4. **Sear the Chicken:** Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add a bit of olive oil, and when it’s hot, place the marinated chicken thighs skin-side down. Sear for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown.
5. **Add Broth and Roast:** Once the chicken is browned, flip them over, pour in the chicken broth, and any remaining marinade. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
6. **Garnish:** When done, take the skillet out of the oven and sprinkle the fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
7. **Serve:** Plate it up with your favorite sides — roasted veggies, rice, or even a simple salad!
Twists and Treats for Lemon Chicken
– **Add Veggies:** Toss some baby potatoes or asparagus into the skillet before roasting. They’ll soak up all those delicious juices!
– **Spice It Up:** For a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for some heat.
– **Herb Variations:** Experiment with herbs! Fresh rosemary or oregano would work beautifully too.
I hope you give this Lemon Chicken recipe a try! It’s bound to brighten your kitchen and tantalize your taste buds. When you do make it, please share your experience — I’d love to hear how it turned out! Happy cooking, friend!
