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
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and position the rack in the center to ensure even baking.
- 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.
- 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.
- Coat Chicken: Generously coat each chicken breast with the olive oil and herb mixture, ensuring all sides are covered for maximum flavor absorption.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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