Baked chicken with lemon is a flavorful and easy dish that's perfect for a weeknight dinner. The lemon adds a bright, zesty flavor that complements the tender chicken. Here’s a simple recipe for Baked Chicken with Lemon:
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or breasts (you can use boneless if you prefer)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 lemons (one for slices and one for juice)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme (or 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves)
- 1 tsp dried rosemary (or 2 tsp fresh rosemary leaves)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the chicken
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up.
Step 2: Season the chicken
- Season: Rub the chicken with olive oil, then season generously with salt, pepper, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and dried oregano. You can also add a bit of minced garlic directly onto the chicken for extra flavor.
Step 3: Add lemon
- Juice the lemon: Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the chicken.
- Add lemon slices: Cut the second lemon into thin slices and place the slices on top of and around the chicken. This will infuse the chicken with lemon flavor as it bakes.
Step 4: Bake the chicken
- Arrange in a baking dish: Place the chicken pieces in a single layer in a baking dish or on a baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy and golden brown. Cooking time will vary depending on the size and type of chicken pieces used.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve the baked chicken with your favorite side dishes.
Serving suggestions:
- Pair with roasted vegetables, such as carrots, potatoes, or Brussels sprouts.
- A side of rice, couscous, or a fresh green salad also complements this dish nicely.
Enjoy your tangy and juicy baked chicken with lemon!
