Are you craving a delicious, healthy meal that's also completely gluten and dairy-free? Look no further! This recipe for flavorful, tender chicken is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a more elaborate weekend meal. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and packed with fresh ingredients that will tantalize your taste buds. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its finest! This recipe is among the best recipes for healthy meals you'll find, and definitely one of the easiest recipes you can master.
Simple Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken
This recipe offers a fantastic way to enjoy chicken while adhering to a gluten and dairy-free diet. The bright lemon and fragrant herbs create a flavor profile that's both refreshing and satisfying. It's a quick dinner idea that's surprisingly sophisticated.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried herbs (Italian mix, oregano, or thyme work well)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
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Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely.
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Create the flavorful marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, dried herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
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Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Pour the herb mixture over the chicken, ensuring they are evenly coated. Tuck lemon slices under and around the chicken breasts.
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Roast the chicken: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
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Serve and enjoy! Serve your delicious, gluten and dairy-free chicken immediately.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet: Give the chicken breasts enough space to cook evenly. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
- Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through to prevent foodborne illness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Roast alongside your chicken your favorite vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or bell peppers for a complete and healthy meal.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Citrus twist: Use lime instead of lemon for a different flavor dimension.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 1-2g
This simple yet delicious chicken recipe is a great addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's a perfect example of how homemade cooking can be both satisfying and effortless. Enjoy this amazing dish, and remember to share it with your friends and family! It's among the best recipes for those seeking delicious dishes that are also gluten and dairy-free.