Home » Main Dish » Baked Sweet Date Lemon Chicken

Baked Sweet Date Lemon Chicken

Baked Sweet Date Lemon Chicken

Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that marries sweet and savory in the most delightful way? Meet Baked Sweet Date Lemon Chicken—a recipe that promises to tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests! With just a handful of ingredients and a mere 40 minutes of your time, you can create a succulent chicken dish that bursts with flavor and showcases the incredible combination of juicy dates and zesty lemon. Whether you're cooking for a family gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Dive in to discover how to whip up this mouthwatering meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings

Ingredients

  1. 4 chicken breasts
  2. 1/2 cup dates, chopped
  3. 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  4. 1 tablespoon olive oil
  5. Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease with olive oil to prevent sticking.
  2. Prepare the chicken breasts by patting them dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a better sear and more even cooking.
  3. Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  4. In a small mixing bowl, combine chopped dates, lemon juice, and olive oil. Mix well to create a sweet and tangy marinade.
  5. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish, ensuring they are not overlapping.
  6. Pour the date and lemon mixture evenly over the chicken, making sure each breast is well-coated.
  7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to help retain moisture during the initial cooking process.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  9. Remove the foil during the last 5-7 minutes of cooking to allow the chicken to brown slightly and the dates to caramelize.
  10. Once cooked, remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
  11. Serve hot, garnishing with additional lemon zest or fresh chopped parsley if desired.

Tips

  1. Prep Ahead: To save time, you can marinate the chicken in the date and lemon mixture a few hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
  2. Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches the perfect internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This guarantees juicy, tender results every time.
  3. Don’t Skip the Resting: Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after baking. This step is crucial for keeping the meat juicy, as it allows the juices to redistribute.
  4. Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add herbs like thyme or rosemary to the date mixture for an extra layer of flavor. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper can also add a delightful kick!
  5. Garnish for Presentation: Elevate your dish by garnishing with fresh lemon zest or chopped parsley before serving. It adds a pop of color and freshness that enhances the overall presentation.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 320kcal

Carbohydrates: 19g

Protein: 41g

Fat: g

Saturated Fat: 2g

Cholesterol: 110mg

Pin Recipe Share Email

Share this:

Leave a Comment