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Lemon Baked Chicken Recipe

Lemon Baked Chicken Recipe

Lemon Baked Chicken Recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights and a delightful meal for any occasion, offering juicy, flavorful chicken with minimal effort. This simple yet elegant dish proves that healthy eating can be incredibly delicious and satisfying, making it a go-to option for home cooks of all levels.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 chicken pieces
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2.5 - 3 pounds Chicken Pieces about 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or breasts, or a mix
  • 2 large Lemons thinly sliced, plus extra for juicing and garnish
  • 4-6 cloves Garlic minced or thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons Olive Oil
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano or your favorite poultry blend
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme or your favorite poultry blend
  • 1 teaspoon Salt or to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper or to taste
  • Fresh Parsley or Rosemary for garnish

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Baking dish
  • Small Bowl
  • Paper towels
  • Meat Thermometer

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with a little olive oil or cooking spray. This prevents the chicken from sticking and ensures an even crisp.
    3 tablespoons Olive Oil
  2. Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This is a crucial step for achieving crispy skin. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme (or your chosen herb blend), salt, and black pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken pieces, ensuring they are well coated.
    3 tablespoons Olive Oil, 4-6 cloves Garlic, 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano, 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme, 1 teaspoon Salt, 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
  3. Place the seasoned chicken pieces in the prepared baking dish. Nestle the thin lemon slices around and on top of the chicken. The lemons will release their juices and infuse the chicken with a wonderful citrus flavor as it bakes, also helping to keep the chicken moist and tender.
    2.5 - 3 pounds Chicken Pieces, 2 large Lemons
  4. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 40-50 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when a meat thermometer is inserted into the thickest part of the thigh (avoiding the bone). The skin should be golden brown and crispy.
  5. Once cooked, carefully remove the baking dish from the oven. Let the Lemon Baked Chicken Recipe rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bite. Garnish with fresh parsley or rosemary if desired, and serve with extra lemon wedges on the side.
    Fresh Parsley or Rosemary

Notes

Leftover Lemon Baked Chicken Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in a covered baking dish at 325°F (160°C) for 10-15 minutes.