To begin, gather the following ingredients:
– 4 boneless, chicken breasts
– 2 lemons
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Now, let’s get started with the preparation process.
Step 1: Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine the juice of one lemon, minced garlic, olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk the ingredients until they are well combined. This marinade will infuse the chicken breasts with a burst of flavor. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or overnight for more intense flavors.
Step 2: Preheat the oven
During the marinating time, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that the oven is ready when you need to cook the chicken breasts.
Step 3: Searing the chicken
Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown. Searing the chicken in the skillet will help to lock in the flavors and juices.
Step 4: Baking
After searing, transfer the skillet with the chicken breasts to the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures that the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Step 5: Lemon zest and juice
While the chicken is baking, zest one lemon using a microplane or grater. Make sure to only grate the yellow part of the lemon, as the white pith underneath is bitter. Set aside the lemon zest. Once you have zested the lemon, cut it in half and squeeze out the juice.
Step 6: Finishing touch
When the chicken is cooked through, remove the skillet from the oven and drizzle the freshly squeezed lemon juice over the cooked chicken breasts. Sprinkle the lemon zest on top for an extra burst of citrus flavor. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in moist and tender chicken.
Now, your lemon chicken breast is ready to be served! You can pair it with your favorite side dish, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. The tangy and succulent flavor of the chicken will surely impress your family and friends.
In conclusion, making lemon chicken breast is a straightforward process that yields a delicious and refreshing dish. With a few simple steps, you can create a flavorful meal that will leave everyone craving for more. So give this recipe a try and enjoy the tantalizing goodness of lemon-infused chicken breast!