Do you want for a mouthwatering chicken dish Lemon Garlic Chicken Breast that is bursting with zesty flavours? Look nowhere else! Our recipe for Lemon Garlic Chicken Breast is the ideal fusion of tender chicken breasts, tangy lemon, and fragrant garlic. This recipe is highly adaptable and may be served with your favourite sides, along with a crisp salad, or on its own. Prepare to savour each bite of this recipe for aromatic and juicy chicken breast!
Gallery Of Lemon Garlic Chicken Breast
Ingredients Lemon Garlic Chicken Breast
To make this tantalizing Lemon Garlic Chicken Breast Recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 lemons
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare Lemon Garlic Chicken Breast
The step-by-step instructions for cooking this delicious Lemon-Garlic Chicken Breast recipe are below.
1/ Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2/ Zest one lemon and set the zest aside.
3/ Cut both lemons in half and squeeze out the juice into a bowl.
4/ Mince the garlic cloves finely.
5/ In a small mixing bowl, combine the lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, olive oil, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
6/ Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the lemon-garlic marinade over them. Ensure the chicken is evenly coated.
7/ Let the chicken marinate for about 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse.
8/ Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and juices run clear.
Preparation Time
Preparation time for this Lemon-Garlic Chicken Breast recipe is approximately 10 minutes, plus an additional 30 minutes for marinating. The baking time is around 25-30 minutes.
Servings Lemon Garlic Chicken Breast
This recipe serves 4 individuals, with one chicken breast per serving.
Tips And Tricks Lemon Garlic Chicken Breast
Use Fresh Ingredients: Start with fresh chicken breasts, garlic cloves, and lemons for the best flavor.
Marinate for Flavor: Marinating the chicken breasts in a mixture of lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and optional herbs (such as thyme or rosemary) for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight, will infuse them with flavor and tenderness.
Pound Chicken Evenly: To ensure even cooking and tenderness, place the chicken breasts between plastic wrap or in a resealable bag and gently pound them to an even thickness. This helps prevent overcooking the thinner parts.
Season Generously: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides for a well-rounded flavor.
Preheat the Pan: Use a heavy-bottomed skillet or frying pan and preheat it over medium-high heat. A hot pan helps achieve a good sear.
Sear for Flavor: Start by searing the chicken, presentation side down, for about 4-5 minutes until it develops a golden-brown crust. Then flip and cook the other side.
Use Butter and Olive Oil: Consider using a combination of butter and olive oil for cooking. Butter adds richness, while olive oil helps prevent the butter from burning.
Minimize Flipping: Flip the chicken breasts only once to allow a nice sear to develop. Frequent flipping can hinder browning.
Cook to the Right Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This will ensure that it’s safe to eat without overcooking and drying it out.
Add Garlic Towards the End: When searing the chicken, add the minced garlic during the last minute of cooking. This prevents the garlic from burning and becoming bitter.
Deglaze the Pan: After removing the chicken, deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine, chicken broth, or lemon juice to create a flavorful sauce. Scrape up the browned bits from the pan for added depth of flavor.
Rest Before Slicing: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in juicier meat.
Garnish: Finish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives for a burst of freshness and color.
Serve with Sides: Lemon garlic chicken breast pairs wonderfully with sides like roasted vegetables, rice, pasta, or a crisp salad. Choose sides that complement the flavors of the dish.
By following these tips and tricks, you can create a mouthwatering lemon garlic chicken breast that’s bursting with flavor and perfectly cooked every time. Enjoy your meal!
NUTRITION FACTS
Here are the approximate nutrition facts for Lemon Garlic Chicken Breast. Keep in mind that these values can vary depending on the specific recipe and portion size:
Serving Size: Typically, a serving of lemon garlic chicken breast is one chicken breast, which can vary in weight but is generally around 4-6 ounces (113-170 grams).
Calories: Approximately 150-250 calories per serving (one chicken breast).
Protein: Approximately 25-30 grams per serving.
Carbohydrates: Minimal, usually less than 1-2 grams per serving.
Dietary Fiber: Negligible to none.
Sugar: Negligible to none, unless additional ingredients with sugar are added.
Fat: Approximately 3-8 grams per serving, depending on how it’s prepared.
Saturated Fat: About 1-2 grams per serving.
Cholesterol: Around 70-90 milligrams per serving, primarily from the chicken.
Sodium: About 200-400 milligrams per serving, but this can vary depending on seasonings and preparation.
Vitamins and Minerals: Lemon garlic chicken breast can provide vitamin C from the lemon juice and various vitamins and minerals from the garlic. The exact content can vary based on preparation.
Please note that the nutrition facts for lemon garlic chicken breast can vary depending on the specific recipe, including variations in the amount of lemon juice, garlic, and the cooking method. If you have specific dietary requirements or are concerned about the nutritional content, it’s advisable to refer to the nutrition label on the specific product or dish you are consuming or consult a registered dietitian for more precise information.
FAQs About Lemon Garlic Chicken Breast
What is Lemon Garlic Chicken Breast?
Lemon Garlic Chicken Breast is a dish made from boneless, skinless chicken breasts flavored with a combination of lemon juice, garlic, herbs, and sometimes other seasonings.
How is Lemon Garlic Chicken Breast made?
To prepare Lemon Garlic Chicken Breast, chicken breasts are typically marinated or coated with a mixture of fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley), salt, and pepper. Then, they are pan-seared, baked, or grilled until fully cooked.
What herbs and spices go well with Lemon Garlic Chicken Breast?
Common herbs and spices used in Lemon Garlic Chicken Breast include thyme, rosemary, parsley, oregano, basil, and sometimes a touch of red pepper flakes for added heat.
Can I marinate chicken breasts in lemon and garlic?
Yes, marinating chicken breasts in a mixture of lemon juice, minced garlic, herbs, and olive oil can infuse them with flavor. Marinating for at least 30 minutes up to a few hours in the refrigerator allows the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Can I use lemon zest in Lemon Garlic Chicken Breast?
Yes, lemon zest (the finely grated outer peel of the lemon) can be added to the marinade or sprinkled over the chicken breasts for an extra burst of lemon flavor.
Should I cook Lemon Garlic Chicken Breast on the stovetop or in the oven?
Lemon Garlic Chicken Breast can be cooked using various methods. Pan-searing on the stovetop or baking in the oven are common methods. Pan-searing creates a golden-brown crust, while baking results in a juicier and evenly cooked chicken.
How long does it take to cook Lemon Garlic Chicken Breast?
Cooking time can vary based on the thickness of the chicken breasts and the cooking method. On average, chicken breasts usually take about 6-8 minutes per side when pan-searing and 20-25 minutes when baking in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C).
Can I make Lemon Garlic Chicken Breast ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade ahead of time and store the chicken breasts in the marinade in the refrigerator for a few hours before cooking. However, it’s best to cook the chicken just before serving for optimal freshness.
What can I serve with Lemon Garlic Chicken Breast?
Lemon Garlic Chicken Breast pairs well with various sides such as roasted vegetables, steamed or grilled asparagus, rice, quinoa, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
Is Lemon Garlic Chicken Breast a healthy dish?
Lemon Garlic Chicken Breast can be a healthy option, especially when using lean chicken breasts and minimal added fats. It’s a good source of protein and can be part of a balanced diet when paired with nutritious sides.
