How to Make Lemon Chicken: A Simple and Delicious Recipe
Lemon chicken is a popular dish that is loved by many for its bright and citrusy flavor. It’s a great option for a quick and easy dinner that’s perfect for any occasion. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making lemon chicken, from preparation to cooking.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Step 1: Preparation
Before we start cooking, let’s prepare the ingredients. Cut the chicken into 1-inch pieces and season with salt and pepper. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, thyme, and paprika. This marinade will give our chicken a nice flavor and tenderize it.
Step 2: Marinating
In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces and the marinade. Make sure the chicken is coated evenly with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
Step 3: Cooking
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Baste the chicken with the pan juices every 10 minutes to keep it moist and flavorful.
Step 4: Glazing
While the chicken is baking, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and white wine (if using). After the chicken has baked for 15 minutes, brush the glaze all over the chicken. Return the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized and sticky.
Step 5: Serving
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with chopped parsley (if using) and serve hot.
Tips and Variations:
- Use fresh lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is essential for this recipe. Don’t use bottled lemon juice or you’ll miss out on the bright, citrusy flavor.
- Adjust the heat: If you prefer a spicier dish, add some red pepper flakes to the marinade.
- Add some zest: Grate some lemon zest over the chicken before serving for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
- Try different herbs: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano to give the dish a unique flavor.
Nutrition Information:
Per serving (assuming 4 servings):
- Calories: 240
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated fat: 2.5g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
Conclusion:
Making lemon chicken is a simple and delicious process that requires minimal ingredients and effort. By following these steps and tips, you’ll be able to create a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, lemon chicken is a great option. Try it out and enjoy the bright and citrusy flavor of this classic dish!