- Fresh lemon (2 large lemons, preferably Eureka or Lisbon variety)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of both lemons
- Bell peppers (4 medium-sized, any color, sliced)
- Olive oil (3 tablespoons)
- Garlic cloves (3-4 cloves, minced)
- Salt (to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
- Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped for garnish, optional)
- Paprika (1 teaspoon) – for extra flavor
- Butter (2 tablespoons)
- Lemon slices (for garnish)
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Steps
### Delicious Baked Lemon Chicken with Peppers: A Flavorful Recipe Guide
#### Introduction to Baked Lemon Chicken with Peppers
Baked lemon chicken with peppers is a delightful dish that combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with fresh, crisp bell peppers and tangy lemons. This recipe offers an easy yet elegant meal option that's perfect for any day or special occasion.
**Key Ingredients:**
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 medium-sized bell peppers (any color)
- 3 large lemons
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
- Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme (optional)
#### Step-by-Step Guide
1. **Preheat Your Oven**
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C).
2. **Prepare the Chicken Breasts**
- Place chicken breasts on a cutting board and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Using a sharp knife, make several shallow cuts across the surface of each breast without cutting all the way through. This helps infuse more flavors.
3. **Slice the Bell Peppers**
- Wash and slice your bell peppers into strips or bite-sized pieces.
4. **Prepare the Lemon Slices**
- Quarter 2 lemons to make slices. The zest from these will be used as well.
- Cut the remaining lemon into wedges for garnish if desired.
5. **Marinate the Chicken (Optional)**
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil with lemon juice and minced garlic.
- Rub this mixture all over the chicken breasts to help them absorb flavors.
6. **Assemble the Baked Lemon Chicken**
- Place one chicken breast on each side of a baking dish.
- Arrange half of the bell pepper slices around and in between the chicken breasts.
- Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with additional salt and pepper if needed.
7. **Add Lemon Zest and Juice**
- Sprinkle the lemon zest over the chicken.
- Cut each lemon wedge into smaller pieces and distribute them over the chicken, ensuring they are placed inside the cuts for maximum flavor absorption.
8. **Bake the Chicken**
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Check halfway through to ensure even cooking and adjust if necessary.
9. **Serve Your Baked Lemon Chicken with Peppers**
- Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes.
- Garnish with fresh herbs or additional lemon slices, then serve immediately with your choice of sides like rice or salad.
#### Tips for Success
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting to ensure even cooking.
- For extra flavor, use a mixture of olive oil and melted butter instead of just oil.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more pepper or omitting it entirely based on your preference.
By following these detailed steps, you’ll be able to create a delicious baked lemon chicken with peppers that’s perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. Enjoy your cooking!