There’s something magical about the smell of lemon and herbs wafting through the kitchen.
When I was a kid, my mom used to make this baked chicken with capers and lemon, and it always felt like a special occasion. The tangy lemon mixed with the salty capers made every bite feel like a little celebration.
Cooking this dish brings back fond memories, and I love sharing it with my own family now. It’s one of those recipes that’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but fancy enough to impress guests. Plus the ingredients are easy to find, which makes it a go-to for me.
If you’re looking for a dish that combines comfort with a touch of elegance, this is it. The bright flavors of lemon and capers transform ordinary chicken into something extraordinary. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become a favorite in your kitchen too.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for this delightful dish.
- 4 boneless chicken breasts
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons capers, drained
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Tools And Equipment
For this baked chicken dish, you don’t need a fancy kitchen. A sharp knife and cutting board are essentials.
I use a trusty baking dish for even cooking. A non-stick pan is perfect for searing the chicken.
A citrus juicer will save your hands when squeezing those lemons. And a zester will help unleash lemony goodness.
Lastly, a good pair of tongs makes handling hot food a breeze.
Directions
This baked chicken with capers and lemon is a breeze to prepare. Just follow these straightforward steps to make a delightful meal.
Prep
I start by patting the chicken dry with paper towels. Then I season both sides with salt and black pepper. This helps the flavors really shine.
Marinate The Chicken
In a shallow dish, I mix the lemon juice, lemon zest, and minced garlic. I add the chicken, making sure it’s well-coated. It marinates for about 30 minutes.
Prepare The Baking Dish
While the chicken marinates, I preheat my oven to 375°F. I lightly oil a baking dish to prevent sticking.
Bake The Chicken
I place the marinated chicken in the baking dish. Then I pour the chicken broth over it and scatter capers around. I bake it for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
Make The Lemon Caper Sauce
As it bakes, I use the pan juices to make a quick sauce. I transfer juices to a saucepan and simmer. If you love a richer flavor, add a touch more of lemon zest. Drizzle this on the chicken before serving.
Assemble The Dish
Once the chicken is marinated, it’s time to put it all together.
I take each chicken breast and place it neatly in the baking dish.
I pour that tangy chicken broth all over.
I scatter those bright green capers around, making sure they nestle between the chicken pieces.
The lemon juice adds a fantastic aroma as it sears in the heat.
I give everything one last check, then pop the dish into the oven.
The scent of the lemon and capers mixing with the chicken makes my mouth water.
I can’t wait to try it out.
Serving Suggestions
When this lemony chicken comes out of the oven, it smells heavenly.
I love serving it over fluffy white rice, which soaks up the tangy lemon-caper broth.
Sometimes, I switch it up with creamy mashed potatoes. It’s a real treat!
A handful of fresh spinach on the side adds a nice pop of color.
For a splash of extra brightness, I sprinkle a bit more lemon zest on top.
A crusty bread slice can also help mop up that delicious sauce.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Sometimes, I’m so busy. So, I love meals I can prepare ahead of time. This baked chicken dish is perfect for that.
First, I like to marinate the chicken the night before. I put it in the lemon mixture and store it in the fridge. It makes the flavors really sink in.
I also prepare the baking dish. A quick spray of olive oil does the trick. Then, I cover it with foil and relax until I’m ready to bake.
When I’m in a hurry, I just take everything out and pop it in the oven. Easy-peasy, right?
This way, dinner is almost ready when I get home. Quick dinner is the best part about these make-ahead steps.
Conclusion
Baked Chicken with Capers and Lemon has truly become a cherished recipe in my home and I hope it finds a special place in yours too.
It’s one of those dishes that brings both comfort and elegance to the table with minimal effort.
The bright flavors of lemon paired with the unique taste of capers transform simple chicken into a memorable meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests you’ll find this dish to be a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire. Give it a try and enjoy the wonderful aromas and flavors that fill your kitchen!
