Description

Baked Lemon Garlic Chicken is a quick, easy, and delicious dinner recipe featuring juicy chicken pieces marinated in a bright lemon and aromatic garlic mixture. This healthy and light dish balances fresh citrus with savory herbs and spices, baked to crispy golden perfection. Perfect for family meals, entertaining, or meal prep, it pairs well with a variety of sides and offers versatile customization options.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or breasts

Marinade

1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1–2 lemons)
1 tablespoon lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
4 garlic cloves, freshly minced
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Optional: 1/2 teaspoon paprika or chili flakes for heat

Garnish

2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley (or preferred fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary)
Extra lemon zest (for sprinkling)

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and optional spices until well combined. This vibrant marinade is the base that infuses every bite with flavor.
Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and coat each piece thoroughly with the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally 2 hours, to allow the flavors to deepen and tenderize the meat.
Preheat and Arrange: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated chicken in a single layer on a baking dish or rimmed sheet pan, skin side up, ensuring enough space between pieces for even roasting.
Bake to Perfection: Bake the chicken for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden and crispy. Halfway through cooking, baste the chicken with pan juices to keep it moist.
Garnish and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley and extra lemon zest on top before serving to boost freshness and presentation.

Notes

Use room temperature chicken by letting it sit out for 20 minutes before baking to promote even cooking.
Don’t skip the lemon zest as it adds essential citrus oils that elevate the overall flavor beyond just juice.
Pat the chicken skin dry before marinating to help it crisp up in the oven.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is perfectly cooked without over-drying.
Reserve the leftover marinade and simmer briefly; drizzle over cooked chicken for extra flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 piece (about 6 oz)
Calories: 320 kcal
Sugar: 1 g
Sodium: 500 mg
Fat: 20 g
Saturated Fat: 4 g
Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 3 g
Fiber: 0.5 g
Protein: 30 g
Cholesterol: 95 mg

Keywords: baked chicken, lemon garlic chicken, easy dinner, healthy chicken recipe, gluten free chicken, quick chicken dinner