Lemon Oregano Chicken is a vibrant and aromatic dish that combines the bright, tartness of lemon with the earthy, robust flavor of oregano. This Mediterranean-inspired recipe involves marinating chicken breasts or thighs in a lemony herb-infused mixture that tenderizes the meat and infuses it with layers of flavor. The marinade, a simple blend of lemon juice, fresh oregano, garlic, and olive oil, doubles as a basting sauce that caramelizes beautifully when grilled or roasted. Perfect for a wholesome family dinner or a sunny weekend barbecue, Lemon Oregano Chicken is deliciously succulent and full of flavor, guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Recipe: Lemon Oregano Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 3 tablespoons fresh oregano, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Lemon slices and additional fresh oregano for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Marinade:
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, chopped oregano, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Place the chicken in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal or cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to overnight, turning the chicken occasionally.
- Preheat Your Cooking Method:
- For grilling: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- For oven roasting: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Chicken:
- For grilling: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and the juices run clear. Use the remaining marinade to baste the chicken occasionally as it cooks.
- For roasting: Place the chicken in a roasting pan along with some of the marinade. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and golden.
- Serve:
- Garnish the chicken with lemon slices and a sprinkle of fresh oregano. Serve hot with a side of roasted vegetables, a salad, or over cooked pasta or rice.
Lemon Oregano Chicken not only delivers on taste but also on health, offering a protein-rich dish that’s low in fat but high in flavor. Its simplicity and quick preparation make it an ideal choice for a nutritious and delicious meal any day of the week.
