Are you looking for a delicious and healthy dinner that's quick to prepare? Look no further! This Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor without sacrificing your health goals. It's perfect for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for a weekend meal. This recipe focuses on homemade cooking, showcasing the simplicity and satisfaction of preparing a delicious dish from scratch. Get ready to enjoy a truly satisfying and light chicken dinner!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup chicken broth (optional, for extra moisture)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated in the mixture. Marinating for at least 15 minutes will allow the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
Step 2: Roast the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the marinated chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet. If using, pour the chicken broth around the chicken. This will help keep the chicken moist during cooking.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Roast the chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear when pierced with a fork. For even cooking, you can flip the chicken halfway through.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken. Serve this light chicken recipe as is, or pair it with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a simple salad.
Cooking Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure the chicken pieces are in a single layer to allow for even cooking and browning.
- Use fresh herbs: If you have access to fresh herbs, feel free to substitute them for the dried herbs. Use about twice the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and herbs to your preference.
- Add vegetables: Enhance your meal by adding vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or asparagus to the baking sheet during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Mediterranean Chicken: Substitute the Italian herbs with oregano, thyme, and a sprinkle of feta cheese after cooking.
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken: Add ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese to the marinade and sprinkle extra on top before baking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: Approximately 30g
- Fat: Approximately 8g
This Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken is a great example of delicious dishes that are both healthy and easy to make. Perfect as a quick dinner idea or a light lunch, it's sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy this simple, yet satisfying meal! It’s a testament to how easy it is to create healthy meals without sacrificing flavor, making it one of the best recipes for those seeking quick and healthy options.