Introduction
If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and nutritious meal, this Easy One-Pan Baked Lemon Chicken is the perfect choice! This dish is packed with zesty lemon, aromatic herbs, and tender chicken, all baked together in one pan for a hassle-free cooking experience. Whether you’re a busy home cook or someone who loves simple yet delicious meals, this recipe is a must-try. Baked lemon chicken has been a popular dish in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine, celebrated for its vibrant flavors and healthy ingredients. The combination of lemon, garlic, and herbs infuses the chicken with irresistible taste, making it a favorite for family dinners and meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Dish?
- One-Pan Simplicity – Less cleanup, more convenience.
- Bright & Zesty Flavor – The lemon enhances the taste beautifully.
- Healthy & Nutritious – High in protein and packed with antioxidants.
- Quick & Easy – Ready in under an hour with minimal effort.
- Perfect for Meal Prep – Great for leftovers and busy weeknights.
Origin of This Dish
Lemon-based chicken dishes have been enjoyed for centuries, particularly in Mediterranean cuisine, where citrus fruits grow abundantly. Ancient Greeks and Romans used lemon juice to tenderize and flavor meats, and this tradition has carried on in modern Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cooking. Today, variations of lemon chicken are enjoyed worldwide, from Italian Pollo al Limone to Greek Lemon Garlic Chicken.
Ingredients for One-Pan Baked Lemon Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 lemons (1 sliced, 1 juiced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for balance)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Method of Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, black pepper, salt, honey, and red pepper flakes.
- Add the chicken breasts and coat them well. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).
Step 2: Assemble the Dish
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the marinated chicken in a baking dish.
- Pour chicken broth around the chicken.
- Arrange lemon slices on top.
Step 3: Bake the Chicken
- Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- For a golden brown top, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
- Chicken – High in lean protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Lemon – Rich in vitamin C, great for immune support.
- Garlic – Contains powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Olive Oil – Provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
- Herbs & Spices – Packed with antioxidants and enhance digestion.
Cooking Tips & Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking Tips:
- Use fresh lemons – Fresh juice and zest make a huge difference in flavor.
- Marinate for longer – More time means more flavor!
- Use a meat thermometer – Ensures perfect doneness.
- Broil at the end – Adds a delicious crispy finish.
Mistakes to Avoid:
- Overcooking the chicken – Dry chicken is not enjoyable; check the internal temp.
- Skipping the resting time – Resting helps retain juices.
- Not using enough seasoning – Lemon is great, but herbs enhance the dish.
Serving Tips
- Serve with roasted vegetables or a side salad.
- Pair with quinoa, rice, or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.
- Drizzle extra lemon juice before serving for a fresh burst of flavor.
Interesting Facts About This Dish
- Lemon has been used in cooking for over 2,000 years, first cultivated in India.
- Garlic was once believed to ward off evil spirits in ancient cultures.
- The combination of lemon and chicken is scientifically proven to enhance umami flavors, making the dish even more satisfying!
Summarized Recipe
- Marinate chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and spices.
- Place chicken in a baking dish with broth and lemon slices.
- Bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until fully cooked.
- Broil for a golden top, then garnish with parsley.
- Serve hot and enjoy this flavorful, easy meal!
This Easy One-Pan Baked Lemon Chicken is the perfect balance of tangy, savory, and comforting flavors. It’s a great choice for weeknight dinners or meal prepping ahead of time. Try this dish and enjoy a simple, healthy, and delicious meal with minimal effort!
