Garlic Lemon Chicken

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy weeknight dinner, then this Garlic Lemon Chicken is just what you need! This recipe is a favorite in my house because it’s not only packed with flavor but also quick to prepare. With juicy chicken marinated in a zesty lemon and garlic mixture, every bite is bursting with goodness. Plus, it’s perfect for busy evenings or family gatherings when you want something that everyone will enjoy.

What truly sets this dish apart is the way it transforms simple ingredients into a meal that feels special. Whether you’re grilling, pan-searing, or baking it alongside tender potatoes and vibrant broccoli, this Garlic Lemon Chicken never fails to impress. You’ll have everyone coming back for seconds—and maybe even thirds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Prep Time: This recipe takes just minutes of hands-on time, making it ideal for those hectic weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: The flavors are mild yet delicious, ensuring even the pickiest eaters will enjoy it.
• One-Pan Wonder: Baking everything on a single sheet pan means less cleanup for you—win-win!
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out veggies or adjust seasonings based on what you have on hand.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Marinate the chicken in advance for an even deeper flavor that saves you time later.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Garlic Lemon Chicken uses simple and wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. These elements come together beautifully to create a dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

For the Chicken and Marinade

• 1 ½- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp EACH salt, pepper, dried basil, dried oregano, onion powder
• 1/2 tsp EACH paprika, ground cumin, dried thyme, sugar

For the Veggies

• 1 pound baby Dutch potatoes, quartered (halved if super small)
• 3 cups broccoli florets

For the Sauce

• 1 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
• 1/4 cup finely freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped chives (optional)
• 1 tablespoon minced dill (optional)
• 1/4 tsp EACH salt, ground cumin
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily tailor it to suit different tastes or dietary needs.

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken breasts instead of thighs for a leaner option.
• Change up the veggies: Feel free to substitute with seasonal vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers.
• Add some heat: If your family enjoys spice, toss in some red pepper flakes or hot sauce for an extra kick.
• Go gluten-free: Ensure all sauces and mustards are labeled gluten-free to accommodate any dietary restrictions.

How to Make Garlic Lemon Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by combining all of your marinade ingredients in a sealable bag. This allows all those lovely flavors to meld together beautifully. Remove a couple of tablespoons to use later for roasting your veggies. Once mixed, add your chicken thighs to the bag and let them soak up all that garlicky goodness for at least 20 minutes. This step is essential as it helps infuse flavor into the meat.

Step 2: Prepare Your Sheet Pan

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F while you line a large sheet pan with foil. Spraying it with cooking spray makes cleanup a breeze! This method keeps everything from sticking and ensures your veggies roast perfectly alongside your chicken.

Step 3: Roast the Potatoes

Toss your quartered baby Dutch potatoes with a reserved tablespoon of marinade and some salt before spreading them out on one side of the prepared pan. Bake these little gems in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes until they start getting golden brown. This gives them a head start before adding the rest of your meal!

Step 4: Add Broccoli and Chicken

After baking the potatoes, pull out the pan and push them aside carefully. Toss your broccoli florets in remaining marinade before adding them next to the potatoes on the same sheet pan. Finally, place your marinated chicken pieces on the empty side of the pan. It’s all about maximizing flavor while minimizing dishes here!

Step 5: Bake Everything Together

Return everything to the oven and bake uncovered until your chicken reaches safe internal temperatures—170-175 degrees F for thighs or 165 degrees F for cutlets. This usually takes around 17-22 minutes depending on thickness.

Step 6: Whip Up Your Sauce!

While everything bakes away happily in the oven, whisk together all ingredients for your Yogurt Parmesan Herb Sauce. It adds creaminess and brightness to every bite! Chill until you’re ready to serve and enjoy with your delicious meal.

And there you have it! A wonderful Garlic Lemon Chicken that’s as delightful as it is easy to make. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Lemon Chicken

Cooking can be a delightful adventure, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your Garlic Lemon Chicken to new heights!

• Marinate for Flavor: Letting the chicken marinate for at least 20 minutes (or up to 4 hours) allows the flavors of lemon and garlic to deeply penetrate the meat, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful dish.

• Use a Meat Thermometer: Invest in a good instant-read thermometer to ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly. This helps avoid overcooking, which can lead to dryness.

• Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to mix and match herbs based on what you have on hand. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can add an extra layer of flavor that complements the lemon beautifully.

• Make it Colorful: When adding vegetables, choose a variety of colors to make your dish visually appealing. Vibrant veggies not only look great but also add different nutrients.

• Serve with Sauce: Don’t skip the Yogurt Parmesan Herb Sauce! It adds creaminess and balances out the acidity from the lemon, making every bite even more delicious.

How to Serve Garlic Lemon Chicken

Presentation can make all the difference when serving this delightful dish! Here are some creative ways to plate your Garlic Lemon Chicken for an impressive meal.

Garnishes

• Fresh Chopped Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or chives on top just before serving for a burst of color and freshness.
• Lemon Wedges: Place lemon wedges around the plate; they not only look pretty but also invite guests to squeeze more citrus over their chicken if they desire.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing complement to the richness of the chicken.
• Roasted Asparagus: Seasoned simply with olive oil and salt, roasted asparagus brings a crunchy texture that pairs nicely with the tender chicken.
• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any extra sauce from your dish, garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser and adds warmth to your meal.
• Simple Green Salad: A mixed green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette offers a crisp counterbalance to the savory flavors of the chicken.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Garlic Lemon Chicken is sure to impress family and friends alike. Enjoy every moment in the kitchen!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Garlic Lemon Chicken recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious home-cooked meals throughout the week without spending hours in the kitchen. You can easily prepare it ahead of time and store the leftovers for quick and satisfying lunches or dinners.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover chicken, potatoes, and broccoli in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
• Consume leftovers within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• Allow the cooked dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Place individual portions in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• To reheat, place in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can microwave on medium heat until hot, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about preparing Garlic Lemon Chicken.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for Garlic Lemon Chicken?

Yes! You can substitute boneless skinless chicken breasts for thighs. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly since breasts may cook faster.

How should I marinate Garlic Lemon Chicken?

Marinate your chicken for at least 20 minutes at room temperature or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator for maximum flavor. The longer it sits, the more flavorful it will be!

What can I serve with Garlic Lemon Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with grains like quinoa or rice, a fresh salad, or your favorite steamed veggies. Feel free to get creative!

Can I use different vegetables with this recipe?

Absolutely! While this recipe features baby Dutch potatoes and broccoli, you can substitute other vegetables such as green beans, bell peppers, or zucchini based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Garlic Lemon Chicken as delightful as I do! It’s a fantastic way to bring bright flavors and wholesome ingredients together for a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Enjoy making it for your family and friends—they’re bound to love it! Don’t hesitate to experiment with side dishes or sauces; make it your own. Happy cooking!