Easy Lemon Chicken Recipe
Overview:
This Easy Lemon Chicken recipe is a delightful combination of zesty flavors and tender chicken. It’s incredibly simple to prepare and results in a dish that’s both juicy and aromatic. Perfect for busy weeknights or any time you’re craving a protein-packed meal with minimal carbs.
- Name: Easy Lemon Chicken
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories per serving: 329.7
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ (4.5)
- Keywords: Very Low Carbs, High Protein, Weeknight, Oven, Easy
- Recipe Category: One Dish Meal
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken
- Lemon juice
- Oregano
- Garlic powder
Instructions:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Prepare Chicken: Start by cutting the chicken through the back partway to lay it flat in a 13×9 inch casserole dish. This helps the chicken cook evenly and ensures maximum flavor absorption. |
| 2 | Add Lemon Juice: Pour lemon juice generously over the chicken, ensuring there’s about 1/4 inch of juice in the pan. The acidity of the lemon will tenderize the meat and infuse it with a refreshing citrus flavor. |
| 3 | Season with Spices: Sprinkle oregano and garlic powder evenly on top of the chicken. These aromatic herbs add depth of flavor and complement the brightness of the lemon juice perfectly. |
| 4 | Marinate: Refrigerate the chicken for about 1 hour, turning it once halfway through. This allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the overall taste of the dish. |
| 5 | Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the chicken uncovered for 1 hour to allow it to brown and develop a delicious crispy exterior. Then, cover it and continue baking for an additional hour to ensure it cooks through evenly and remains moist. |
| 6 | Serve: Once fully cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Before serving, pour the juices accumulated in the pan over the chicken to enhance its succulence and flavor. |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 329.7
- Total Fat: 23.1g
- Saturated Fat: 6.6g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
- Sodium: 107.3mg
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 28.5g
Serving Suggestions:
This Easy Lemon Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a fresh green salad for a well-balanced meal. You can also shred the leftover chicken and use it to make wraps, sandwiches, or salads for a delicious lunch the next day.
Tips:
- For extra lemon flavor, you can zest some lemon peel over the chicken before baking.
- If you prefer a crispier skin, you can broil the chicken for a few minutes at the end of the cooking time.
- Make sure to use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before serving.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Enjoy this Easy Lemon Chicken recipe as a satisfying and flavorful meal that’s sure to become a family favorite! 🍋✨
