Tangy Delight: Zesty Lemon Chicken Recipe

Lemon chicken is a classic dish that never fails to brighten up any mealtime. With its tangy flavor and succulent texture, it's a crowd-pleaser that's surprisingly simple to prepare. Let's dive into this delightful recipe that will leave your taste buds tingling with joy.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 lemons
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Begin by preparing the marinade for your lemon chicken. In a small bowl, combine the juice of one lemon, minced garlic, olive oil, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all the flavors are evenly distributed.
- Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag, and pour the marinade over them. Make sure each piece of chicken is well coated. Cover the dish or seal the bag, and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.
- Once the chicken has marinated, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes.
- Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add a drizzle of olive oil to the skillet. Place the chicken breasts in the skillet, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
- While the chicken is searing, slice the remaining lemon into thin rounds. Once the chicken is golden brown on both sides, place a few lemon slices on top of each chicken breast.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake the lemon chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is cooked through. Always use an instant read thermometer to ensure that your chicken is cooked to the correct temperature.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor.
Serve your tangy lemon chicken hot, alongside your favorite side dishes. Consider pairing it with steamed asparagus, roasted potatoes, or a crisp green salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette to complement the bright flavors of the dish. Enjoy this zesty delight with friends and family for a meal that's sure to impress!