Chicken Breast Baked In Lemon And Garlic
Juicy baked chicken breasts infused with lemon and garlic, topped with a flavorful syrupy sauce. Perfect for a quick, bright, and satisfying meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat a small skillet and add olive oil.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
- Stir in lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and then set aside.
- Arrange chicken breasts in a lightly buttered shallow baking dish in a single layer.
- Pour the garlic mixture over the chicken and sprinkle with grated lemon peel.
- Cover the dish with foil.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Transfer the chicken to plates and pour the cooking juices into a small skillet.
- Add chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Cook until the liquid is reduced by half and becomes syrupy.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense flavor, marinate the chicken in the lemon-garlic mixture for at least 30 minutes before baking. If you're out of chicken broth, vegetable broth can be a good substitute. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate the dish even further, adding depth reminiscent of Mediterranean recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This lemon and garlic chicken pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad. For a complete meal, serve alongside garlic mashed potatoes or rice. A light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, complements the dish well, making it perfect for a dinner party or family gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish with a splash of chicken broth and cover with foil. Heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, ensuring it remains moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Breast Baked In Lemon And Garlic contains roughly 983 calories, with 3g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 105g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1832mg per serving (80% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bone-in chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken breasts, but you will need to adjust the cooking time. Bone-in pieces typically take longer to cook, around 25-30 minutes after removing the foil. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.
What can I substitute for olive oil?
If you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute olive oil with avocado oil or melted coconut oil. Both alternatives work well for sautéing and will complement the garlic and lemon flavors in the dish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and the garlic-lemon mixture in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to bake, simply assemble and follow the cooking instructions for a quick and easy meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).