If you’re looking for a quick, tasty, and healthy weeknight dinner idea, look no further. This crispy baked lemon pepper chicken with wild rice is the perfect meal to satisfy your cravings without feeling guilty.

With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a flavorful dish that will impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into the recipe!.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:.

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme

For the Rice:.

1 cup wild rice
2 cups water
1 tablespoon butter
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 cup diced onion
1/4 cup diced bell pepper (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, black pepper, salt, paprika, garlic powder, and dried thyme. Mix well.

3. Place the chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet and brush both sides of each breast with the prepared marinade.

4. Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The chicken should be golden brown and crispy on the outside.

5. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Step 2: Cooking the Wild Rice

1. In a large saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add salt to taste.

2. Add the wild rice to the boiling water and cover the saucepan with a lid.

3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the rice for about 45-50 minutes or until the rice is tender and the water has been absorbed.

4. In a separate skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, diced onion, and diced bell pepper (if desired). Sauté until the onions and peppers are soft and the garlic is fragrant.

5. Once the rice is cooked, add it to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Mix well to combine.

6. Season the rice mixture with salt and pepper to taste.

Serving Suggestion:

To serve this delightful meal, arrange a portion of the wild rice on a plate and place a sliced chicken breast on top. Garnish with some fresh lemon slices and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for added freshness and color.

This dish pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables.

Tips and Variations:

1. For extra crispy chicken, you can dip the marinated chicken breasts into beaten eggs and then coat them in breadcrumbs before baking.

2. If you don’t have wild rice, you can substitute it with brown rice or quinoa.

3. Feel free to add other herbs and spices to the chicken marinade according to your taste preferences. Rosemary or thyme work great with lemon and pepper.

4. Want a bit of heat? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the chicken marinade.

5. You can also grill the chicken instead of baking it for a smoky flavor.

Conclusion

There you have it – a delicious and easy recipe for crispy baked lemon pepper chicken with wild rice. This dish is not only satisfying but also packed with flavor.

Whether you’re looking for a nutritious dinner option or planning a special meal for guests, this recipe won’t disappoint. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to cook up a delightful feast!.