Are you ready to spice up your dinner routine? Baked Garlic Lemon Pepper Chicken is a delicious, easy dish that’s bursting with flavor. You only need a few simple ingredients, like chicken breasts, garlic, and fresh lemon juice. This recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also impresses your guests. Let’s dive into how you can make this flavorful delight tonight!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon salt
The main ingredients are simple but key. Chicken breasts provide the base. Olive oil adds richness. Garlic gives a strong flavor. Lemon juice and zest bring bright notes. Black pepper and salt enhance everything.
Herbs and Seasonings
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Herbs and seasonings make the dish shine. Oregano and thyme add depth. Red pepper flakes give heat, but it’s optional. Fresh parsley looks great and adds freshness. This blend of flavors elevates the chicken.
For the full recipe, you can check out the details above. Enjoy cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat the oven: Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is key to ensure even cooking.
2. Prepare the marinade: In a small bowl, mix together:
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 minced garlic cloves
– Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Stir well to combine all the flavors into a tasty marinade.
3. Marinate the chicken: Take 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts and place them in a large resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken. Make sure each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish. Place it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. If you can wait, marinate up to 2 hours for more flavor.
Baking Process
1. Arrange chicken on a baking sheet: After marinating, take the chicken out and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Ensure the pieces do not touch. This helps them cook evenly.
2. Bake until cooked through: Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes. The chicken is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
3. Rest and garnish before serving: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This keeps it juicy. Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy your flavorful delight!
Tips & Tricks
Marination Tips
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, marinating for 2 hours gives great taste. Use a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish for marinating. This keeps the chicken well coated in the marinade.
Cooking Tips
To check if your chicken is done, use a meat thermometer. It should read 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part. To avoid dry chicken, do not overbake it. Keep an eye on the time and check doneness early.
Presentation Tips
Serve your Baked Garlic Lemon Pepper Chicken on a large platter. Add lemon wedges and fresh parsley for color. For a full meal, pair it with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. This makes the dish look and taste even better.
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can change the taste of Baked Garlic Lemon Pepper Chicken by adding herbs. Try rosemary or basil for a fresh twist. These herbs work well with the lemon and garlic. You can also mix in other citrus fruits. Lime or orange can add a sweet and tangy flavor. Just replace some lemon juice with lime or orange juice to switch things up.
Dietary Adjustments
If you want a low-sodium version, use less salt or a salt substitute. You can still enjoy the rich flavors without the extra sodium. For gluten-free needs, ensure all ingredients are gluten-free. Most spices and oils are safe, but check labels to be sure.
Cooking Methods
You can grill or bake the chicken. Grilling gives it a smoky flavor and nice grill marks. Baking is easier and keeps the chicken juicy. If you want to use a slow cooker, just add the marinated chicken to it. Cook on low for about 6 hours or high for 3 hours. This method makes the chicken very tender and full of flavor.
For the full recipe, check out Baked Garlic Lemon Pepper Chicken.
Storage Info
Leftover Storage
To keep your baked garlic lemon pepper chicken fresh, first cool it down. Wrap it in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. This helps seal in the flavor. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Frozen chicken can last up to three months.
Reheating Tips
When it’s time to eat your leftovers, reheat the chicken safely. The best way is to use the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken in a baking dish. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warm. You want to avoid the microwave, as it can dry out the chicken. Keeping the flavor and moisture is key to a tasty meal.
For the full recipe, check out the Baked Garlic Lemon Pepper Chicken section.
FAQs
Common Questions
How long does it take to bake chicken at 400°F?
It takes about 25 to 30 minutes to bake chicken at 400°F. Check the chicken’s internal temperature. It should reach 165°F for safe eating.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs. They are juicier and have more flavor. Adjust baking time slightly. Thighs may need an extra 5 minutes.
What can I serve with Baked Garlic Lemon Pepper Chicken?
You can serve this chicken with many sides. Try roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or rice. Lemon wedges add a nice touch too.
Additional Inquiries
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this recipe is great for meal prep. Make a few batches and store them in the fridge. They stay tasty for up to four days.
Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
Absolutely! You can freeze the marinated chicken. Just place it in a freezer bag. It stays good for up to three months.
How do I adjust the recipe for larger servings?
To serve more people, simply double or triple the ingredients. Ensure that you have enough baking space. Bake in batches if needed for even cooking.
For the full recipe, check out the Baked Garlic Lemon Pepper Chicken section.
This blog post covered how to make Baked Garlic Lemon Pepper Chicken. We discussed the main ingredients, herbs, and seasonings. You learned step-by-step how to prepare and bake the chicken. We shared tips for marination, cooking, and presentation. You also found flavor variations, dietary options, and storage tips.
In summary, this recipe is simple and tasty. Feel free to experiment with flavors and adjust as needed. Enjoy your cooking!
