I remember the first time I made baked chicken with garlic and lemon zest.
It was a chilly evening, and the comforting aroma filled my kitchen, making it feel like a warm hug. The combination of garlic and lemon is something magical. It’s like they were made for each other!
This dish is perfect for those nights when you want something simple yet satisfying. The tangy lemon zest and the rich garlic flavor make the chicken burst with taste. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up, even on a busy weeknight.
Whenever I serve this, it brings everyone to the table. There’s something about the zesty, savory mix that makes it irresistible. It’s a little taste of sunshine, no matter the season.
Ingredients
Here’s what you need.
- 4 boneless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zest and juice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
That’s it. Real simple stuff.
Tools and Equipment
I like to keep things simple. You’ll need a few basic kitchen tools to whip up this baked chicken. A good cutting board and a sharp knife are for prepping the garlic and lemons.
A zester comes in handy for getting just the right amount of lemon zest. For the baking part, I use a baking dish big enough to fit all the chicken pieces without crowding them.
Grab a mixing bowl for marinating. And you can’t forget a pair of tongs. They’re perfect for flipping and tossing the chicken in the sauce.
Prep
Let’s get everything ready for our flavorful baked chicken. We will start by prepping the chicken and then whip up a zesty marinade.
Preparing the Chicken
First, lay the chicken breasts on a cutting board. Pat them dry with paper towels. Sprinkle both sides with salt and black pepper.
Make sure the chicken is evenly seasoned. This will ensure each bite is tasty!
Preparing the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, pour in 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the zest and juice of one lemon.
Mix in 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano. Stir until well combined.
This marinade smells amazing already! Grab your chicken and let it soak up these flavors.
Instructions
Making baked chicken with garlic and lemon zest is super easy. Let me walk you through the steps.
Marinating the Chicken
After prepping the chicken, I rub the zesty marinade all over it.
I then like to place the chicken in the mixing bowl, letting it swim in that lemony goodness.
I leave it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes so it can soak up all those flavors.
Preheating the Oven
While the chicken marinates, I preheat my oven to 375°F.
This way, it reaches the perfect temperature by the time the chicken is ready.
Baking the Chicken
Once marinated, I transfer the chicken to the baking dish.
I make sure to pour any extra marinade on top for extra flavor.
Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until it’s cooked through and juicy.
As it bakes, the aroma fills my kitchen with a warm, inviting scent.
Optional Additions
You can sprinkle in red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Adding capers gives a tangy surprise.
Chopped rosemary or thyme adds earthiness.
A dash of white wine brings depth and elegance.
Dust with grated parmesan for a cheesy finish.
Scatter cherry tomatoes around for sweetness and color.
Serving Suggestions
I love pairing this baked chicken with garlic and lemon zest with a fragrant rice pilaf. It soaks up the lemony sauce just perfectly.
Sometimes, I whip up a fresh green salad. A simple mix of spinach and arugula with cherry tomatoes makes a crisp contrast.
Crusty bread is also a winner. It’s great for sopping up all that leftover juice on your plate.
And don’t forget about roasted veggies! A mix of carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers adds color and nutrition.
I’ve also tried it with creamy mashed potatoes. It’s so comforting.
These sides make the meal feel complete and oh-so-satisfying.
Conclusion
There’s something truly special about a dish that can bring warmth and joy to any meal.
Baked chicken with garlic and lemon zest does just that, offering a delightful mix of flavors that’s both comforting and invigorating. It’s a recipe that’s easy to prepare and perfect for sharing with loved ones.
Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or hosting a cozy dinner, this dish promises to impress with its simplicity and vibrant taste.
So next time you’re looking for a meal that captures the essence of sunshine and togetherness, give this baked chicken a try. It’s sure to become a cherished favorite at your table.
