Prepare to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary Italian feast with this irresistible Roasted Chicken Italian Style! Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts infused with aromatic herbs, zesty garlic, and bright lemon, creating a symphony of flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Italy. Whether you're a home cook looking to impress your family or a culinary enthusiast seeking a simple yet spectacular dish, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game and leave everyone craving more.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Ensure the oven rack is positioned in the middle of the oven for even cooking.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a crispy exterior when roasting.
- In a small bowl, mix the Italian seasoning, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful marinade.
- Rub the chicken breasts thoroughly with the prepared marinade, ensuring each piece is evenly coated and the seasoning penetrates the meat.
- Arrange the marinated chicken breasts in a large baking dish or roasting pan, leaving some space between each piece for proper heat circulation.
- Place lemon slices around and on top of the chicken breasts to infuse additional citrus flavor during roasting.
- Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and roast for approximately 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken's internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5-7 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender result.
- Optionally, garnish with fresh chopped parsley or additional lemon slices before serving.
- Serve hot with your choice of side dishes such as roasted vegetables, pasta, or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Pat the chicken dry: This crucial step ensures a crispy, golden-brown exterior that locks in all the delicious flavors.
- Don't rush the marinating: Allow the Italian seasoning and garlic to fully coat the chicken, giving it time to absorb the rich, aromatic flavors.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic, high-quality olive oil, and fresh lemon make a significant difference in the final taste.
- Temperature is key: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches exactly 165°F (74°C) for perfectly cooked, juicy meat.
- Let it rest: Always allow the chicken to rest for 5-7 minutes after cooking to redistribute the juices and maintain maximum tenderness.
- Experiment with sides: Pair this chicken with roasted vegetables, creamy risotto, or a light Mediterranean salad for a complete meal.
- Make ahead tip: You can prepare the marinade and coat the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for even more flavor development.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 32g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 110mg
