Zesty Citrus Garlic Chicken

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 30 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with our Zesty Citrus Garlic Chicken! This dish combines fresh citrus flavors with aromatic garlic, making it both refreshing and savory. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is a delightful way to brighten up your meal.

Ingredients for Zesty Citrus Garlic Chicken

Chicken breasts form the protein foundation of this dish, absorbing all the zesty goodness of the marinade. Garlic adds a deliciously aromatic depth, while the lemon juice and orange juice bring a refreshing citrus punch. Olive oil not only helps in blending the marinade but also adds a subtle richness. Salt and black pepper are essential for seasoning, and oregano adds a hint of Mediterranean flair. Finally, lemon slices make for a beautiful and flavorful garnish.

Tips & Tricks

  • Marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours if you have the time, for even more intense flavors.
  • Use a meat mallet to pound the chicken breasts evenly for uniform cooking.
  • If you prefer grilling, this recipe is fantastic on the barbecue — just keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

Serving Suggestions

This Zesty Citrus Garlic Chicken pairs beautifully with a side of steamed asparagus or a fresh green salad. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside roasted potatoes or a light quinoa salad with Mediterranean vegetables.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well too. Just adjust the cooking time as they may take a bit longer to cook through.
What if I don’t have fresh citrus?
You can substitute with bottled lemon and orange juice, although fresh is preferred for the best flavor.
How can I tell if the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Zesty Citrus Garlic Chicken Recipe Walkthrough

First, grab a mixing bowl and whisk together your minced garlic, lemon juice, orange juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and oregano until well blended. The aroma of the citrus and garlic will start to fill the air — it’s a good preview of what’s to come.

Next, place your chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is well coated. Seal the bag, removing as much air as possible, and let it rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This marinating time allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, making it succulent and tasty.

While the chicken is marinating, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once preheated, remove the chicken from the marinade and arrange the pieces in a baking dish. Discard the leftover marinade to ensure food safety.

Bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The cooking time may vary depending on your oven and the thickness of the chicken breasts, so it’s a good idea to use a meat thermometer.

Finally, once baked to perfection, garnish with fresh lemon slices before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also a touch of extra flavor.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • A burst of citrus flavor that transforms ordinary chicken into an extraordinary meal.
  • Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Uses simple, fresh ingredients that you likely already have at home.
  • Healthy and satisfying, fitting seamlessly into a balanced diet.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 lemon, sliced for garnish

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together the garlic, lemon juice, orange juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and oregano.
2. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade and place in a baking dish. Discard the marinade.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Garnish with lemon slices before serving.

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