- **Black pepper** - 1/2 teaspoon (freshly ground for best flavor)
- **Red pepper flakes** - 1/4 teaspoon (optional, for a spicy kick)
- **Fresh parsley** - 2 tablespoons (chopped, for garnish)
This **lemon marinated chicken recipe** is perfect for a **healthy dinner idea**, **quick weeknight meal**, or **grilled chicken dish**. The combination of **citrus flavors**, **herbs**, and **garlic** makes it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion!
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# How to Make Lemon Marinated Chicken: A Flavorful Main Dish
If you're looking for a **zesty, flavorful, and easy-to-make main dish**, this **lemon marinated chicken recipe** is perfect for you. Packed with **bright citrus flavors** and **tender, juicy chicken**, this dish is ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Follow these **step-by-step instructions** to create a **restaurant-quality meal** at home.
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine **fresh lemon juice**, **lemon zest**, **minced garlic**, **olive oil**, and **honey**.
2. Add **dried oregano**, **smoked paprika**, **salt**, and **black pepper**. Whisk until the marinade is well combined and slightly emulsified.
### **2. Marinate the Chicken**
1. Place the **chicken breasts** in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish.
2. Pour the **lemon marinade** over the chicken, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
3. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for **at least 30 minutes** (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
### **3. Cook the Chicken**
1. Preheat your grill, skillet, or oven to **medium-high heat** (about 375°F/190°C).
2. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Discard the remaining marinade.
3. If grilling, cook the chicken for **5-7 minutes per side** until the internal temperature reaches **165°F (74°C)**. For stovetop cooking, heat a skillet with a drizzle of olive oil and cook for the same time. For baking, place the chicken on a lined baking sheet and bake for **20-25 minutes**.
### **4. Rest and Garnish**
1. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for **5 minutes** to lock in the juices.
2. Garnish with **fresh parsley** or **thyme** for a pop of color and added freshness.
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## **Serving Suggestions**
- Pair your **lemon marinated chicken** with **roasted vegetables**, **garlic mashed potatoes**, or a **fresh green salad**.
- Serve over **quinoa** or **couscous** for a complete, healthy meal.
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## **Why This Recipe Works**
This **lemon marinated chicken** is a crowd-pleaser because it’s:
- **Quick and easy**: Minimal prep time with maximum flavor.
- **Versatile**: Perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-searing.
- **Healthy**: Low in carbs and high in protein, making it a great option for fitness enthusiasts.
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## **SEO Keywords**
- Lemon marinated chicken recipe
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- Zesty lemon chicken
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Try this **lemon marinated chicken recipe** today and enjoy a **burst of citrus flavor** in every bite. Perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to become a family favorite!