Quick and Delicious Lemon Garlic Baked Chicken Breast Recipe

Looking for a simple and delicious way to prepare chicken breast? Try this easy lemon garlic baked chicken breast recipe. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can have a flavorful and tender chicken breast dish that is perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.

This recipe calls for boneless, skinless chicken breasts, making it a healthier option. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and herbs, which adds a bright and zesty flavor. The marinated chicken is then baked in the oven until cooked through and golden, resulting in a juicy and flavorful main course.

To make the marinade, simply combine fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, dried herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, and oregano), salt, and pepper in a bowl. Place the chicken breasts in a zip-top bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and massage the chicken to coat it evenly in the marinade. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, but for best results, marinate it for up to 24 hours.

Ingredients

To make this easy lemon garlic baked chicken breast recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

These ingredients are all you need to create the flavorful and tender chicken breast. The olive oil provides a rich and moist texture, while the garlic and lemon add a tangy and zesty flavor. The combination of oregano, parsley, salt, and black pepper enhances the taste and adds a hint of herbaceousness to the dish.

To bring out the best flavors, it is important to use fresh garlic and lemon juice. You can also add additional herbs or spices of your choice, such as thyme or paprika, to customize the recipe according to your taste preferences. Overall, these simple ingredients come together to create a delicious and easy weeknight meal that the whole family will enjoy.

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the chicken breast with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat and add minced garlic. Sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
4. Add lemon juice and chicken broth to the pan. Let it simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
5. Place the seasoned chicken breast in a baking dish and pour the lemon garlic sauce over it.
6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
7. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5 minutes to allow the chicken to brown slightly.
8. Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Once the chicken breast is tender and juicy, you can serve it with your choice of side dishes such as roasted vegetables, steamed rice, or a fresh salad. This lemon garlic baked chicken is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner.

Benefits of Lemon Garlic Baked Chicken Breast

• Rich in Protein: Chicken breast is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. It can also help control appetite and promote weight loss.
• High in Vitamin C: Lemon, one of the key ingredients in this recipe, is packed with vitamin C, an antioxidant that helps boost the immune system and protect the body from oxidative stress.
• Garlic Health Benefits: Garlic is not only delicious but also comes with several health benefits. It has been found to have antibacterial and antifungal properties, as well as potential cancer-fighting properties.
• Low in Calories: This recipe uses minimal oil and is baked instead of fried, making it a low-calorie option for those watching their weight or trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
• Easy to Make: Lemon garlic baked chicken breast is a simple recipe that requires few ingredients and minimal preparation time. It’s perfect for those days when you want a quick and nutritious meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Overall, lemon garlic baked chicken breast is a delicious and nutritious option that provides a good dose of protein, vitamin C, and other health benefits. It’s a versatile dish that can be paired with various sides or used in salads and sandwiches. Give it a try and enjoy all the benefits it has to offer!

Nutritional Information:

Nutritional Value

Protein: Chicken breast is known for being a lean source of protein. It is rich in amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein and necessary for cell growth and repair. A 4-ounce serving of chicken breast provides approximately 35 grams of protein.

Vitamins and Minerals: This recipe incorporates lemon and garlic, which not only add flavor but also contribute to the nutritional value of the dish. Lemons are a great source of vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system and aids in iron absorption. Garlic, on the other hand, contains vitamins B6 and C, as well as minerals such as manganese and selenium.

Overall, the easy lemon garlic baked chicken breast recipe is a nutritious option that provides a good amount of protein, essential vitamins, and minerals. Incorporating this dish into a well-balanced diet can contribute to overall health and well-being.

Health Benefits of Easy Lemon Garlic Baked Chicken Breast

Here are some of the health benefits of easy lemon garlic baked chicken breast:

• High in protein: Chicken breast is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, promoting muscle growth, and supporting a healthy immune system.
• Low in calories: Baked chicken breast is a low-calorie dish, making it suitable for those who are watching their calorie intake. It can help with weight management and maintaining a healthy diet.
• Rich in vitamins and minerals: Chicken breast contains various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B6, vitamin C, niacin, phosphorus, and selenium. These nutrients contribute to overall health and well-being.
• Boosts energy: Chicken breast provides a good amount of iron, which helps in the production of red blood cells and carries oxygen throughout the body. This can help boost energy levels and prevent fatigue.

In summary, easy lemon garlic baked chicken breast is a nutritious and delicious dish that offers several health benefits. With its high protein content, low calorie count, and various vitamins and minerals, it can contribute to a healthy diet and overall well-being.