Your weeknight dinner just got a whole lot tastier with this oven-baked chicken recipe. Packed with the fresh flavors of lemon and herbs, it’s bound to become a family favorite.
And to complement the chicken, we have a delightful and aromatic lemon and herb pilaf. Let’s dive right in and discover the steps to make this delicious meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 lemons, divided
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the chicken thighs in a large baking dish, skin side up. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken and rub it evenly. Sprinkle minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, oregano, salt, and pepper over the chicken.
Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the chicken as well. Make sure the chicken is well-coated with the seasoning.
Step 2: Bake the Chicken
Place the baking dish with the chicken in the preheated oven. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the skin turns golden brown and crispy, and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Juices should run clear when pierced with a fork.
Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
Step 3: Prepare the Lemon and Herb Pilaf
In a saucepan, combine the white rice, chicken broth, and the juice of one lemon. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff the rice with a fork and add chopped parsley for an extra burst of freshness.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Place a generous scoop of the lemon and herb pilaf on each plate and top it with a perfectly baked chicken thigh. Squeeze a slice of lemon over the chicken just before serving.
You can also garnish it with additional fresh herbs for a delightful presentation. Serve it hot and relish the incredible flavors of this oven-baked chicken with lemon and herb pilaf.
Conclusion
Oven-baked chicken with lemon and herb pilaf is a delightful meal that combines the tender and juicy chicken with the bright and zesty flavors of lemon and herbs. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly delicious.
The crispy skin of the chicken contrasting with the fluffy and aromatic pilaf is a match made in culinary heaven. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply want a satisfying weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try and let your taste buds revel in the flavorful symphony!.