Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that embodies the essence of Italian comfort food—Mama Romano's Baked Lemon Chicken! This delightful recipe is not just a meal; it's an experience that will transport you to a sun-kissed Italian kitchen with every bite. With its zesty lemon flavor and perfectly tender chicken, it's the perfect dinner solution for busy weeknights or special gatherings. In just one hour, you can create a mouthwatering dish that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this culinary adventure that promises to impress!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a large baking dish by lightly greasing it with olive oil or non-stick cooking spray.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps ensure a crispy exterior when baking.
- In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to create a marinade.
- Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish, ensuring they are not overlapping.
- Pour the lemon marinade evenly over the chicken breasts, making sure each piece is well-coated on all sides.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to help keep the chicken moist during the initial cooking period.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes covered, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5-7 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Squeeze additional fresh lemon juice over the top if desired.
- Serve hot with your choice of side dishes such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can marinate the chicken in the lemon mixture for a few hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat even more deeply.
- Crispy Finish: For an extra crispy exterior, consider broiling the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Just keep a close eye on it to prevent burning!
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled for a brighter flavor, and don’t skimp on the parsley garnish—it adds a beautiful touch and fresh flavor.
- Side Pairings: This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, creamy risotto, or a light arugula salad. Feel free to get creative with your sides!
- Check Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe and juicy results.
- Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, they make a fantastic addition to salads or wraps for lunch the next day!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 110mg
