Delicious Dinners Made Easy with Lemon Herb Baked Chicken

Struggling to get a delicious homemade meal on the table during busy weeknights? You’re not alone. Between work, school, and extracurricular activities, finding time to cook can feel impossible. Fortunately, my Effortless Lemon Herb Baked Chicken recipe is here to save the day. This dish is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it’s also packed with flavor and nutrition. Get ready to make dinner a breeze!

Lemon Herb Baked Chicken is a versatile and flavorful dish that combines juicy chicken pieces with a zesty blend of herbs and spices. The recipe is designed to be effortless, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s a hit with kids and adults alike, making it a family-friendly option.

Ingredients you’ll need to make Lemon Herbed Baked Chicken

• 12 pieces of your favorite cut of chicken (breasts, drumsticks, or thighs)
• 2 tbsp Olive oil
• 1/2 tbsp Lemon zest
• 1/2 tbsp Oregano
• 1/2 tbsp Dried rosemary
• 1/2 tbsp Dried thyme
• 1/2 tbsp Salt
• 1/2 tbsp Pepper
• 1/2 tbsp Brown sugar
• 1 tbsp Onion powder
• 1/2 tbsp Garlic powder
• 1 tbsp Smoked paprika
• 1 cup Chicken broth
• 1 diced onion
• 1 diced green pepper

Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing Lemon Herb Baked Chicken

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

To start, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Gather all your ingredients and make sure everything is ready to go. This will make the cooking process smoother.

Step 2: Clean and Season the Chicken

Clean and pat your chicken dry. This step ensures that the seasoning adheres better to the meat. Next, mix the chicken with olive oil and all of the listed spices, including salt, pepper, lemon zest, oregano, thyme, and smoked paprika. Don’t forget the brown sugar—it adds a touch of sweetness that balances the savory flavors beautifully.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

In a baking dish, layer diced onions and green peppers. These vegetables will add extra flavor and aroma to your chicken. Place the seasoned chicken pieces on top of the vegetables, ensuring even coverage. Add a cup of chicken broth to the dish, which will keep the chicken moist and juicy during baking.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for one hour. This allows the chicken to cook through while retaining its moisture. After an hour, remove the foil and bake for another 20 minutes. This step helps the chicken brown and develop a richer flavor.

Step 5: Broil for Crispy Skin

For the final touch, broil the chicken for five minutes. This will give the skin a perfectly crispy texture that’s absolutely irresistible.

Benefits of Lemon Herb Baked Chicken

Nutritional Value

Chicken is a lean source of protein, making it a healthy option for your family. The addition of herbs and spices not only enhances the flavor but also adds various health benefits. For instance, oregano and thyme are known for their antioxidant properties.

Cost-Effectiveness

This dish is not only delicious but also budget-friendly. With simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry, you can create a gourmet meal without breaking the bank.

Family-Friendly Appeal

The combination of juicy meat and robust seasoning makes this dish a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it to picky eaters or food enthusiasts, everyone is sure to enjoy it.

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