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Easy Lemon Chicken Recipe


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4.3 from 75 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Diet: Halal

Description

This Easy Lemon Chicken recipe features succulent boneless, skinless chicken breasts baked to perfection with a vibrant blend of olive oil, dried herbs, garlic, fresh lemon zest and juice, and a touch of white wine. The result is a juicy, flavorful dish that’s simple to prepare and perfect for a quick family dinner or special occasion, served garnished with fresh parsley and optional lemon slices.


Ingredients

Chicken

  • 4 chicken breasts, boneless, skinless (about 2 ½ pounds)

Marinade and Seasoning

  • ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1½ teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1½ teaspoons dried thyme
  • 1½ teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1½ teaspoons kosher salt, divided
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

Sauce

  • ½ cup dry white wine (Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Pinot Gris)
  • 2 tablespoons garlic, minced (from 6 cloves)
  • 2 teaspoons lemon zest, freshly grated
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, from 1 lemon
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar

Optional Garnishes

  • 1 lemon, cut into 6 slices
  • Flat leaf parsley, minced, for serving


Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and position the rack in the center to ensure even baking.
  2. Prepare Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, then place them evenly in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  3. Make Seasoning Mix: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, dried oregano, dried thyme, garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Mix well to create a flavorful seasoning blend.
  4. Coat Chicken: Generously coat each chicken breast with the olive oil and herb mixture, ensuring all sides are covered for maximum flavor absorption.
  5. Prepare Sauce: Using the same bowl, stir together the dry white wine, minced garlic, fresh lemon zest, lemon juice, brown sugar, and the remaining ½ teaspoon of kosher salt until well combined.
  6. Add Sauce and Lemon Slices: Pour this aromatic sauce evenly over the seasoned chicken breasts in the baking dish. If using, nestle lemon slices between the chicken breasts for added citrus aroma and presentation.
  7. Bake First Half: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the chicken uncovered for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to start cooking through.
  8. Baste Chicken: Remove the dish from the oven carefully, baste the chicken with the pan juices to keep it moist and flavorful, then return it to the oven.
  9. Bake Final Half: Continue baking for another 15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when checked with an instant-read thermometer, ensuring it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
  10. Serve: Serve the chicken family-style, optionally garnished with minced flat leaf parsley to add a fresh, herbal finish.

Notes

  • Ensure chicken breasts are of similar size for even cooking.
  • The white wine can be substituted with low-sodium chicken broth if preferred or to avoid alcohol.
  • The lemon slices are optional but add extra lemon flavor and a beautiful presentation.
  • Use an instant-read thermometer to check doneness accurately to prevent overcooking and dryness.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently to avoid drying out the chicken.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American