Ina Garten’s Lemon Chicken Breasts is a simple, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with a tangy, garlicky lemon sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.

What is Ina Garten Lemon Chicken Breasts?

Lemon Chicken Breasts is a classic dish featuring oven-roasted chicken breasts baked in a zesty sauce made with fresh lemon juice, garlic, and herbs. Ina Garten’s version elevates this dish with a balance of brightness from the lemon and richness from olive oil and butter, creating a perfect harmony of flavors.

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Reasons to Try Ina Garten Lemon Chicken Breasts

Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour with minimal prep.
Bursting with Flavor: The lemon-garlic sauce adds a tangy, savory touch.
Healthy and Light: Made with simple, wholesome ingredients.
Versatile: Pairs well with a variety of sides.

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten Lemon Chicken Breasts

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – 4
Lemon zest – 1 tbsp (from 1 lemon)
Lemon juice – ¼ cup (freshly squeezed)
Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
Olive oil – 3 tbsp
Unsalted butter – 2 tbsp, melted
Dry white wine or chicken stock – ½ cup
Fresh thyme – 1 tsp, chopped (plus sprigs for garnish)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper – to taste
Optional garnish: Lemon slices and fresh parsley

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Lemon Chicken Breasts

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, melted butter, white wine (or chicken stock), thyme, salt, and pepper.
Season the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish. Sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper.
Pour the Sauce: Pour the lemon sauce evenly over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well-coated.
Bake the Chicken: Bake uncovered for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Baste the chicken with the sauce halfway through cooking to keep it moist.
Serve: Transfer the chicken to a serving plate and spoon the pan sauce over the top. Garnish with lemon slices, thyme sprigs, or parsley, if desired.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten Lemon Chicken Breasts?

Rice or Quinoa: Soak up the delicious lemon-garlic sauce.
Roasted Vegetables: Pair beautifully with roasted asparagus, broccoli, or carrots.
Mashed Potatoes: Adds a creamy, comforting side.
Crisp Salad: A light salad balances the richness of the dish.

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten Lemon Chicken Breasts

Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides the best flavor.
Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is perfectly cooked and not dry.
Baste for Moisture: Basting the chicken with the sauce during cooking helps keep it tender and flavorful.
Add Extra Herbs: Experiment with rosemary, oregano, or parsley for added depth.
Make It Ahead: Marinate the chicken in the sauce for a few hours before baking for even more flavor.

Creative Variations of Ina Garten Lemon Chicken Breasts

Add Capers: Include a tablespoon of capers for a briny twist.
Make It Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream to the sauce for a richer flavor.
Include Vegetables: Add cherry tomatoes or green beans to the baking dish for a one-pan meal.
Use Bone-In Chicken: Try bone-in chicken breasts or thighs for a slightly different texture.
Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten Lemon Chicken Breasts

Refrigerate leftovers: Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freeze for Later: Place cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheat Gently: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock to keep the sauce from drying out.

Nutrition Value

Calories: ~280 per serving
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Fats: 12g
Vitamin C: ~20% of the daily value
Iron: ~8% of the daily value

FAQs

How Do You Keep Lemon Chicken Breasts From Drying Out?

To keep lemon chicken breasts moist, baste the chicken with the lemon-garlic sauce halfway through cooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to 165°F (75°C) and avoid overcooking. Covering the dish with foil for part of the baking time can also help retain moisture.

Can You Use Bone-In Chicken for This Recipe?

Yes, bone-in chicken breasts or thighs can be used for this recipe. Adjust the cooking time to about 40-50 minutes, as bone-in chicken takes longer to cook. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

What Sides Go Best With Lemon Chicken Breasts?

Lemon chicken breasts pair well with rice, quinoa, or couscous to absorb the flavorful sauce. Roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or carrots also complement the dish, as do creamy sides like mashed potatoes or a crisp green salad.

Can You Make Lemon Chicken Breasts Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can make lemon chicken breasts ahead of time. Prepare the sauce and marinate the chicken in it for a few hours in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, bake as directed. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated gently to maintain moisture.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s Lemon Chicken Breasts are a simple yet elegant dish that’s packed with flavor and easy to prepare. The tangy lemon-garlic sauce and tender chicken make it a versatile recipe for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Pair it with your favorite sides and enjoy a meal that’s both healthy and delicious!

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