Ina Garten’s Lemon Chicken

Name: Ina Garten’s Lemon Chicken
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ¼ cup olive oil; 3 tablespoons minced garlic (8-9 cloves); ⅓ cup dry white wine; 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 2 lemons); 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 1 lemon); 1 ½ teaspoons dried oregano; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves; Salt and pepper to taste (optional); 4 boneless, skin-on chicken breasts, 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, or 2 skin-on half chickens, patted dry; Lemon slices (from remaining lemon after zesting)

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If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious dinner that will impress your family or guests, Ina Garten’s Lemon Chicken is the perfect choice. This recipe features tender, juicy chicken complemented by a bright, tangy sauce made with fresh lemon, garlic, and aromatic herbs. It’s a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its flavorful marinade, this dish is guaranteed to elevate your home-cooked meals and satisfy everyone at the table.

Why Ina Garten’s Lemon Chicken is a Must-Try

Ina Garten’s Lemon Chicken is not only a showstopper but also an easy-to-make, weeknight-friendly dish. The juicy chicken, combined with a zesty, herby sauce, creates an irresistible flavor profile. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just need a quick and satisfying dinner, this recipe offers simplicity without compromising on taste. The best part? You can make the sauce ahead of time, allowing you to prep the dish in advance for a fuss-free cooking experience.

Ingredients for Ina Garten’s Lemon Chicken

Here are the key ingredients that bring this dish to life:

Olive Oil: Adds richness and serves as the base for the sauce.
Minced Garlic: Provides a savory depth of flavor.
Dry White Wine: Adds a slight acidity and a nuanced complexity to the sauce.

Lemon Zest and Juice: The heart of the dish, giving it a bright, tangy flavor.
Dried Oregano and Fresh Thyme: Enhance the aroma and herbal notes of the sauce.
Chicken Breasts or Thighs (Skin-On): The star of the dish, with the skin helping to lock in moisture and crisp up in the oven.

Lemon Slices: Infuse the chicken with more citrus flavor while it cooks.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re looking to adjust this recipe for dietary preferences or ingredient availability, here are a few swaps you can try:

Chicken Broth Instead of Wine: If you prefer not to use wine, replace it with an equal amount of chicken or vegetable broth for a more subtle flavor.

Skinless Chicken: For a lower-fat option, feel free to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Just be sure to monitor the cooking time carefully to avoid overcooking.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Ina Garten’s Lemon Chicken

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a small saucepan, warm the olive oil over low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, but avoid letting it brown.

In a separate bowl, mix together the dry white wine, lemon zest, lemon juice, oregano, and thyme. Stir this mixture into the garlic oil and season with salt and pepper.
Pour about half of the sauce into an oven-safe baking dish.
Place the chicken pieces, skin-side up, in the dish. Tuck lemon slices under the chicken skin and season with additional salt and pepper if desired.

Pour the remaining sauce over the chicken.
Bake for 30-40 minutes, depending on the size and cut of your chicken. Check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F. If the skin isn’t browned to your liking, place the dish under the broiler for 1-2 minutes.
Let the chicken rest, covered with foil, for about 10 minutes before serving.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Lemon Chicken

Marinate Ahead of Time: If you have the time, marinate the chicken in the sauce for several hours or overnight. This will intensify the flavors and make the chicken even more tender.
Check for Doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F for safe consumption.
Crispier Skin: To achieve the crispiest skin, you can broil the chicken for a couple of minutes after baking.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

Ina Garten’s Lemon Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few ideas:

Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed asparagus or green beans make a great pairing.
Rice or Mashed Potatoes: The sauce from the chicken is perfect for drizzling over a side of rice or mashed potatoes, soaking up all that delicious flavor.

Herb Salad: A fresh herb salad with lemon vinaigrette will complement the bright flavors of the chicken.

Storing and Making Ahead

You can make this dish ahead of time by marinating the chicken in the sauce and refrigerating it for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, simply bake it in the oven as instructed. Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep.

Why You Should Try Ina Garten’s Lemon Chicken

This dish is the perfect combination of ease and elegance, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions. With minimal prep and a short cooking time, you’ll have a flavorful, satisfying meal in under an hour. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, Ina Garten’s Lemon Chicken is sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy the delightful balance of lemony tang and savory goodness in every bite!

Conclusion: Ina Garten’s Lemon Chicken – A Must-Try Recipe for Every Home Cook

Ina Garten’s Lemon Chicken is a simple yet elevated dish that delivers big on flavor. The combination of juicy chicken, aromatic herbs, and a tangy lemon sauce makes this recipe perfect for a quick dinner or a special meal. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned cook, this dish is foolproof, satisfying, and guaranteed to please. The best part is that it’s versatile enough to be served with various side dishes, making it a perfect go-to recipe for any occasion.

Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delightful balance of zesty lemon and savory chicken. It’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. However, keep in mind that the skin helps lock in moisture and adds flavor. If you choose skinless chicken, reduce the cooking time to prevent the chicken from becoming dry.

Can I make Ina Garten’s Lemon Chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. When you’re ready to cook, simply bake it as directed. This allows the flavors to meld even more, making the dish even more delicious.

What can I substitute for dry white wine in this recipe?

If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with chicken broth or vegetable broth. For a different flavor profile, consider using a splash of apple cider vinegar or white grape juice.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If your sauce turns out too watery, you can thicken it by simmering it on the stovetop for a few minutes before pouring it over the chicken. Alternatively, add a slurry of cornstarch and water to the sauce and cook until it thickens to your desired consistency.

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Ina Garten’s Lemon Chicken – Easy & Flavorful Weeknight Recipe

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