Ah, the joy of cooking chicken! There’s something so satisfying about pulling off a simple yet delicious chicken dish that even beginners can master. This recipe is my go-to for weeknight dinners because it’s straightforward and packed with flavor. I remember the first time I cooked chicken; I was so nervous! But I followed a simple recipe like this one, and it turned out perfectly juicy and tender. Trust me, you’ll feel like a pro in no time! The blend of spices and the zing of fresh lemon juice make this dish a winner every time. Let’s dive into the delicious world of chicken recipes together!

Ingredients List

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this simple chicken dish shine. You’ll need:

• 2 chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless work best for this recipe, ensuring they cook evenly and stay juicy.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: This adds richness and helps the spices stick to the chicken.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for flavor! Adjust to taste if you’re watching your sodium intake.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: A little kick that complements the other spices.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For that aromatic touch without the fuss of fresh garlic.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a beautiful color and a hint of smokiness.
• 1 lemon (juiced): Fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish, so don’t skip this step!

That’s it! With these simple ingredients, you’re well on your way to a delicious chicken dinner.

How to Prepare Instructions

Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious chicken dish in no time.

1. Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is super important because it ensures your chicken cooks evenly.
2. Prep the chicken: Take your chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better and gives you a lovely sear.
3. Mix the spices: In a bowl, combine the olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Give it a good stir until it’s well mixed.
4. Season the chicken: Rub that flavorful mixture all over the chicken breasts, making sure they’re well coated. Don’t be shy; this is where the magic happens!
5. Get ready to bake: Place the seasoned chicken in a baking dish. Then, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top for that burst of flavor.
6. Bake it: Pop the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
7. Let it rest: Once it’s out of the oven, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This is crucial to keep it juicy and tender.
8. Slice and serve: Finally, slice the chicken and serve it up! Enjoy your delicious creation!

And there you have it! Simple steps to a scrumptious chicken dish that’s perfect for any night of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy: This recipe is perfect for beginners with straightforward steps that anyone can follow.
• Quick cooking time: With just 25-30 minutes in the oven, you’ll have a delicious dinner ready in no time.
• Flavor-packed: The blend of spices and fresh lemon juice creates a mouthwatering dish that’ll impress your family.
• Versatile: Serve it with rice, veggies, or a salad for a complete meal!

Tips for Success

To ensure your chicken turns out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips:

• Don’t skip the patting dry step: This is key for getting that lovely golden crust. Moist chicken won’t sear properly!
• Use a meat thermometer: If you want to be extra sure, check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. It takes the guesswork out!
• Let it rest: Seriously, don’t rush this part! Resting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your chicken incredibly juicy.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to switch up the spices to suit your taste. A little cayenne for heat or Italian herbs for a twist can work wonders!

With these tips, you’ll be on your way to chicken perfection!

Nutritional Information

Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these numbers are just estimates. For this chicken recipe, each serving typically contains about:

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 10g
• Protein: 40g
• Carbohydrates: 0g

Always double-check with your ingredients for the most accurate nutritional info!

FAQ Section

Here are some common questions you might have about this chicken recipe:

• Can I use skin-on chicken breasts? Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as skin-on pieces may take a bit longer to cook through.
• What can I serve with this chicken? This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. Get creative!
• Can I marinate the chicken overnight? Yes! Marinating can enhance the flavor. Just remember to reduce the lemon juice slightly to avoid overpowering the taste.
• Are there any easy chicken recipes for meal prep? Definitely! This recipe is great for meal prep, as it reheats well and stays juicy.

Feel free to reach out if you have more questions about chicken recipes!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

To store any leftovers, let the chicken cool completely, then place it in an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn!

When you’re ready to enjoy your chicken again, reheating in the oven is the best way to keep it juicy. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the chicken in a baking dish with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist, and heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You’ll love how delicious it still tastes!

For more tips on cooking chicken, check out this chicken cooking chart for safe cooking temperatures.

For additional nutritional information, you can refer to the USDA’s FoodData Central for comprehensive details.

recipes chicken: 7 Simple Steps to Delicious Success!

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x
• Diet: Diabetic

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Description

A simple and delicious chicken recipe perfect for beginners.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 lemon (juiced)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
3. In a bowl, mix olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
4. Rub the mixture over the chicken breasts.
5. Place the chicken in a baking dish.
6. Squeeze the lemon juice over the chicken.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
8. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
9. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

• Make sure the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
• Use fresh lemon juice for better flavor.
• Do not skip the resting time; it helps keep the chicken juicy.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 40g
• Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: chicken recipes, easy chicken recipe, beginner chicken dish