Baked Garlic Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe
Introduction
This Baked Garlic Lemon Pepper Chicken is a simple, flavorful dish perfect for any night of the week. Tender chicken breasts are infused with zesty lemon, savory garlic, and a buttery finish that makes each bite irresistible.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup butter, cut into pieces
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 lemon, sliced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Step 2: Place the chicken breasts in a 13×9 inch baking dish and pour the lemon juice evenly over them.
- Step 3: In a small bowl, mix lemon pepper, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning blend evenly over the chicken.
- Step 4: Place one tablespoon of butter on top of each chicken breast. Scatter the remaining butter pieces around the chicken in the dish.
- Step 5: Arrange lemon slices on and around the chicken breasts for added flavor and aroma.
- Step 6: Bake the chicken uncovered for 30 to 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Tips & Variations
- Marinate the chicken in lemon juice and seasonings for 30 minutes before baking to boost flavor.
- Use bone-in chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier results, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
- Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant twist.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep the chicken moist and tender.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
Yes, you can mince 2-3 cloves of fresh garlic and mix them with the lemon juice before pouring over the chicken for a more intense garlic flavor.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is safe and juicy.
PrintBaked Garlic Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe
This Baked Garlic Lemon Pepper Chicken recipe offers a simple and flavorful way to prepare juicy chicken breasts infused with zesty lemon, garlic, and pepper, all baked to perfection with a buttery finish. Ideal for a quick yet delicious weeknight dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 chicken breasts
Butter and Juices
- 1/2 cup butter, cut into pieces
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 lemon, sliced
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon lemon pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it’s hot enough for baking the chicken evenly.
- Prepare the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a 13×9-inch baking dish in a single layer and pour the lemon juice evenly over them to add moisture and tang.
- Season the chicken: Combine the lemon pepper, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl, then sprinkle this seasoning mix evenly over each chicken breast to infuse flavor.
- Add butter: Place one tablespoon of butter on top of each chicken breast for richness, and scatter the remaining butter pieces around the dish to keep the chicken moist during baking.
- Add lemon slices: Arrange the lemon slices on and around the chicken breasts to impart a fresh citrus aroma and extra flavor as it cooks.
- Bake the chicken: Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 30 to 45 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring it’s fully cooked but still juicy.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temperature to avoid overcooking.
- For extra crispiness, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes.
- Serve with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keywords: baked chicken, garlic lemon chicken, lemon pepper chicken, easy chicken recipe, oven-baked chicken
