Are you craving a delicious and easy weeknight dinner that's bursting with flavor? Look no further! This Lawry's Herb & Garlic Marinade Chicken recipe is the perfect solution for busy cooks who want a healthy and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This simple recipe transforms humble chicken breasts into a succulent, flavorful feast, perfect for a quick dinner or a casual get-together. It’s one of those easy recipes that always impresses!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup Lawry's Seasoned Salt (or your favorite blend of herbs and garlic)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together the Lawry's Seasoned Salt, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, and black pepper. Ensure all ingredients are well combined to create a flavorful marinade.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each breast is evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably for 2-4 hours for maximum flavor. Longer marinating times result in more tender and flavorful chicken.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). You can bake, grill, or pan-fry the chicken.
- Baking: Place the marinated chicken breasts in a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
- Pan-frying: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This simple recipe is perfect served with your favorite sides – roasted vegetables, rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad all complement this delicious dish beautifully.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When pan-frying or baking, ensure the chicken breasts aren't overcrowded. This will prevent even cooking and may lead to steaming instead of browning.
- Use a meat thermometer: The most accurate way to ensure your chicken is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of Lawry's Seasoned Salt or other herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Lemon Herb Chicken: Increase the amount of lemon juice and add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a brighter, more herbaceous flavor.
- Honey Garlic Chicken: Add 1-2 tablespoons of honey to the marinade for a sweet and savory twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 250-300 Protein: 30-35g Fat: 10-15g Carbohydrates: 2-5g
This Lawry's Herb & Garlic Marinade Chicken recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. It's a delicious dish that’s easy to make, adaptable to your preferences, and guaranteed to be a family favorite. Enjoy!