Are you looking for delicious and healthy dinner ideas? Craving a meal that's packed with protein but light on fat? Look no further! This Lemon Herb Baked Chicken recipe is the perfect solution for a quick, easy, and satisfying dinner. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, delivering a burst of fresh flavors without sacrificing your health goals. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, and it's adaptable to your taste preferences, making it one of the best recipes you'll add to your repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried herbs (Italian mix, oregano, or thyme work well)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This simple step ensures your chicken cooks evenly and reaches the perfect temperature.
Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely in the oven.
Make the marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, dried herbs, salt, and pepper. This fragrant mixture is the key to tender and flavorful chicken.
Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they're evenly coated. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes (longer is better, up to 30 minutes). Marinating adds depth of flavor and keeps the chicken moist.
Bake the chicken: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked perfectly.
Serve and enjoy: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken breast.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure there's enough space between the chicken breasts for even cooking. If necessary, use two baking dishes.
- Check for doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly to prevent foodborne illnesses.
- Rest the chicken: Allowing the chicken to rest before slicing helps retain its moisture and enhances its flavor.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Mediterranean Chicken: Substitute the Italian herbs with oregano, thyme, and a sprinkle of dried rosemary. Add some crumbled feta cheese before serving.
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken: Add ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese to the marinade.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 5-8g
This Lemon Herb Baked Chicken recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of healthy meal ideas. It's a simple, quick dinner option that's packed with protein and low in fat, perfect for those looking for easy recipes without compromising on taste. It's a great example of delicious dishes you can easily make at home, showcasing the benefits of homemade cooking and making healthy eating achievable. Try it tonight and experience the delightful flavors for yourself!