Oven-baked chicken with lemon and garlic

Oven-Baked Lemon Garlic Chicken

There are moments when cooking becomes a true art and a pleasure. This oven-baked lemon garlic chicken recipe is one of those dishes that will fill your home with delicious aromas and bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. It is simple, quick, and most importantly, the result is spectacular. Whether you prepare it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish will surely be appreciated.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 kg chicken wings (or thighs, depending on preference)
- 1 lemon (fresh, for a more intense flavor)
- 1 head of garlic (about 10 cloves, but you can adjust to taste)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (freshly ground, for a richer taste)
- Chicken seasoning (choose a blend you like; paprika, thyme, and basil are recommended)
- Olive oil (or vegetable oil, for greasing the meat)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by cleaning the chicken wings. Rinse them under cold running water and pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This step is essential for achieving a crispy, golden crust.

2. Seasoning: Place the cleaned wings in a large bowl. Add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, pepper, and your preferred seasonings. Mix well so that each piece of meat is evenly coated. Let them marinate for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.

3. Preparing the baking tray: In a deep baking tray, pour a little oil to cover the bottom. Arrange the chicken wings, making sure they are not overlapping, so they brown evenly.

4. Adding flavors: Slice the lemon into thin rounds. Place the lemon slices on top of the meat so that the juice drips over the chicken while baking. Then, peel the garlic cloves, leave them whole, and add them to the tray. The garlic will infuse the meat with a deep and delicious flavor.

5. Adding water: Pour about 1.5 cups of water into the tray to help form a sauce. If you want a juicier roast, you can add a little more water during baking.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 200°C (high heat) and place the tray inside. Bake the chicken for about 40-45 minutes, turning the wings halfway through for even browning. If you notice the sauce reducing too much, add a little water.

7. Serving: Once the chicken is golden and juicy, remove the tray from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. You can serve it with a side of pilaf, steamed vegetables, or even a garlic sauce for an extra flavor boost.

Useful tips:
- You can use any type of chicken, but wings are ideal for capturing the delicious flavors of lemon and garlic.
- If you like a stronger garlic flavor, you can add more garlic cloves or even crush them slightly before adding to the tray.
- This recipe is versatile; you can add vegetables like carrots or potatoes to create a complete dish.

Nutritional benefits:
Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, while garlic has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Lemon provides a boost of vitamin C, which helps strengthen the immune system.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, make sure to thaw it completely before marinating.
2. How can I adapt the recipe for a gluten-free diet?
This recipe is already gluten-free, but always check the seasonings to ensure they do not contain gluten.
3. What other sides pair well?
Rice pasta, green salads, or mashed potatoes are excellent choices.

Possible variations:
- You can add fresh herbs like rosemary or sage for an even more intense flavor.
- Replace lemon with orange for a sweeter, fruitier taste.

Oven-baked lemon garlic chicken is not only a delicious dish but also a culinary experience that will bring you pleasant memories. Whether you prepare it for family or friends, it will surely become a staple recipe in your kitchen. Enjoy your meal!