Chicken with lemon

Lemon Chicken – a savory and aromatic recipe, perfect for a family dinner or to impress your guests! This recipe uses simple yet flavorful ingredients and will transport you to a world of Mediterranean aromas. Moreover, it is an easy-to-make recipe, ideal for those who want to cook a delicious dish without spending hours in the kitchen.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 90 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 chicken (approximately 1.7 kg)
- 2 large lemons
- 50 ml extra virgin olive oil
- 100 ml dry white wine
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- Pepper to taste
- 2 teaspoons vegeta (or salt to taste)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 1 bunch of fresh dill (optional)
- 200 g whole mushrooms (optional)

A short story about lemon chicken:
Lemon chicken is a classic dish that has won the hearts of many over the years. This recipe has been passed down from generation to generation, with deep roots in traditional cuisine, where fresh and natural ingredients blend harmoniously. The lemon, with its refreshing acidity, not only enhances the flavors but also helps tenderize the meat, turning every bite into a delicious experience.

Step by step for perfect lemon chicken:

1. Preparing the chicken: Start by washing the chicken under cold running water. Make sure to dry it well with a kitchen towel to allow for effective marinating.

2. Preparing the marinade: In a bowl, squeeze the juice from the two lemons (one larger lemon is enough for a 1.7 kg chicken). Add the extra virgin olive oil and white wine. Mix well to combine the ingredients.

3. Seasoning: Add oregano, thyme, basil, and pepper to the marinade mixture. If desired, you can also add a bit of crushed garlic for extra flavor. Mix everything well so that the spices distribute evenly.

4. Marinating the chicken: Turn the chicken on all sides and generously coat it with the prepared marinade. Make sure to place some lemon peel inside the chicken for an intensified flavor. Cover the chicken with plastic wrap and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (ideally a few hours or even overnight in the fridge).

5. Preparing for the oven: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the chicken in a baking tray and sprinkle vegeta on top. You can add a few slices of lemon over the chicken for an attractive appearance and to enhance the aroma.

6. Baking: Place the tray in the oven and let the chicken bake for 90 minutes. Halfway through the time, turn the chicken over to brown evenly.

7. Adding mushrooms: If you choose to include mushrooms, add them to the tray about 30 minutes before taking the chicken out of the oven. They will cook quickly and absorb the delicious flavors from the marinade.

8. Serving: When the chicken is ready, take it out of the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before cutting. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and dill for a vibrant appearance. Serve alongside a fresh green salad or grilled vegetables for a healthy lunch or dinner.

Useful tips:
- Choose fresh lemons: Fresh lemons have a more intense flavor than preserved ones. Choose lemons that are firm and have a vibrant color.
- Fresh herb version: If you have fresh herbs available, use them instead of dried ones for an even more intense flavor.
- Long-term marinating: Marinating the chicken overnight in the fridge will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat better, resulting in a tastier dish.
- Combine with various side dishes: Lemon chicken pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, vegetable rice, or even baked potatoes.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use a pre-cooked chicken? Yes, you can use leftover chicken from a previous meal. Reheat it in the oven with the marinade to revitalize its flavors.
- What type of white wine is best? Choose a dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, which will add depth to the dish.
- Can I replace lemon with another citrus? Yes, you can experiment with lime or oranges for a different flavor.

Nutritional benefits:
Chicken is an excellent source of protein, essential for tissue development and repair. Lemon provides a boost of vitamin C, which helps strengthen the immune system, while aromatic herbs add antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.

This lemon chicken recipe is not only easy to prepare but also full of flavors and health benefits. Whether you enjoy it with loved ones or prepare it for a special occasion, it is certainly a dish that will delight your taste buds. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 1 chicken of 1,700 g (that's what mine weighed) 2 lemons, 50 ml oil, 1/2 teaspoon oregano, 1/2 teaspoon thyme Kotanyi, 1/2 teaspoon basil, mixed pepper Kotanyi, 2 teaspoons Vegeta, fresh parsley and dill, a few whole mushrooms, 100 ml white wine.