Chicken with lemon and garlic
Delicious Lemon and Garlic Chicken Recipe
Who doesn’t love a flavorful meal that fills the house with a tempting aroma? The Lemon and Garlic Chicken recipe is one of those dishes that combines simplicity with unique flavors, making it perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. This dish is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients, with the nutritional benefits of chicken and vegetables being a perfect bonus for any meal.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 55 - 60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Necessary ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken thigh
- 1/2 chicken breast
- 8 medium potatoes
- 1 large lemon
- 8 cloves of garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 4-5 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup water
Step-by-step preparation:
1. Preparing the meat: Start by cleaning the chicken, making sure to remove any skin or excess fat. Cut the meat into smaller pieces if desired, so it cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors. Season with salt and pepper, ensuring each piece is well coated.
2. Preparing the potatoes: Peel the potatoes and cut them into thick slices, about 1-2 cm. This thickness will allow the potatoes to cook well and absorb the flavors of the dish. Season them with salt, pepper, and paprika, then add thyme and oregano. Add the olive oil and mix well to ensure all potato slices are evenly coated.
3. Arranging in the pan: In a large baking dish, arrange the seasoned potatoes in a single layer. Make sure to leave enough space between the potato slices for even baking. Then, place the chicken pieces among the potatoes so that the juices from the meat can drip down and flavor the vegetables.
4. Adding garlic and lemon: Slice the garlic thinly and the lemon into thick slices. Place the garlic and lemon slices over the chicken and potatoes. The lemon will add a pleasant acidity to the dish, while the garlic will provide a unique flavor.
5. Adding water: Pour a cup of water into the dish, lightly covering the bottom to prevent burning. This step will help create a delicious sauce during baking.
6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture, then place it in the oven for 40 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and leave the dish in the oven for another 10-15 minutes, so the chicken and potatoes can brown nicely.
7. Serving: Once the dish is ready, take it out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. You can garnish with freshly chopped parsley for an extra touch of freshness. Serve warm alongside a simple green salad or a portion of steamed vegetables to complete the meal.
Practical tips:
- If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can marinate the chicken with lemon and garlic a few hours before cooking.
- Instead of potatoes, you can use other vegetables, such as carrots, zucchini, or onions, to vary the recipe.
- This is an excellent recipe for using leftover chicken; you can use previously cooked chicken, and the baking time will be shorter.
Nutritional benefits:
Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, while potatoes are a good source of complex carbohydrates, fiber, and vitamins. Garlic not only enhances flavor but is also known for its beneficial properties on the immune system.
Frequently asked questions:
- Can the dish be frozen? Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken, but the potatoes will lose their texture when thawed.
- What drinks pair well with this recipe? A dry white wine or fresh lemonade are excellent options.
- Can I use other herbs? Of course! Rosemary, basil, or sage are delicious alternatives.
This Lemon and Garlic Chicken recipe is not only simple but also full of flavor and nutritious, making it ideal for any occasion. Enjoy every bite! Bon appétit!
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken thigh, 1/2 chicken breast, 8 medium potatoes, 1 large lemon, 8 cloves of garlic, thyme, oregano, salt, pepper, paprika, 4-5 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 cup of water
