Here’s a detailed recipe for Lemon Garlic Chicken—juicy, flavorful, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Lemon Garlic Chicken
Ingredients:
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4 chicken thighs or breasts (bone-in or boneless)
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3–4 garlic cloves, minced
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2 tbsp olive oil
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Juice and zest of 1 lemon
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1 tsp dried oregano or thyme (or a mix)
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½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
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¼ tsp black pepper
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Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Marinate the chicken
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In a bowl, mix: olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, salt, and pepper.
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Add the chicken pieces and coat evenly.
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Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator for more flavor.
2. Preheat oven or pan
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Oven method: Preheat to 400°F (200°C).
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Stovetop method: Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Cook the chicken
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Oven: Place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet or ovenproof dish. Bake for 25–35 minutes (depending on size and bone-in/bone-out) until cooked through and golden.
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Skillet: Heat a little olive oil, sear chicken on both sides for 3–5 minutes until golden, then cover and cook for another 10–15 minutes until done.
4. Optional pan sauce
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After removing chicken, you can make a quick sauce in the same skillet:
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Add a little chicken broth, lemon juice, and a knob of butter.
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Simmer for 2–3 minutes and pour over the chicken.
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5. Serve
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Garnish with chopped parsley or extra lemon slices.
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Serve with rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Tips for Best Results:
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Juicy chicken: Don’t overcook; internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
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Garlic flavor: Mince finely or press for the strongest aroma.
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Extra tang: Add a splash of white wine or extra lemon juice to the sauce.
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Storage: Store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for 2–3 days.