Prepare to transform your ordinary dinner into a culinary masterpiece that will have your family and friends begging for seconds! This Meyer Lemon Parmesan Chicken is not just a recipe; it's a journey of tantalizing flavors that dance between bright citrusy notes and rich, savory Parmesan cheese. Imagine tender chicken breasts infused with zesty Meyer lemon, perfectly golden Parmesan crust, and a mouthwatering aroma that will fill your kitchen with pure anticipation.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup Meyer lemon juice
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your chicken will cook evenly and develop a nice golden crust.
- In a medium bowl, combine the Meyer lemon juice, grated Parmesan cheese, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until well blended, creating a flavorful marinade.
- Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
- After marinating, remove the chicken from the refrigerator. Let it sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes while you prepare your baking dish.
- Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking. Arrange the marinated chicken breasts in the dish, pouring any remaining marinade over the top.
- Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The Parmesan cheese should be melted and slightly golden.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender chicken.
- While the chicken is resting, chop fresh parsley for garnish. This will add a pop of color and freshness to your dish.
- Serve the Meyer lemon Parmesan chicken warm, garnished with the chopped parsley. Pair it with your favorite side dishes such as roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or pasta for a complete meal.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh Meyer lemons for the most vibrant flavor. Their unique sweetness differs from regular lemons and elevates the entire dish.
- Marinate Wisely: Don't over-marinate the chicken. 15-30 minutes is perfect to infuse flavor without breaking down the meat's texture.
- Room Temperature Matters: Let the chicken sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
- Check Internal Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- Let It Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after cooking to retain maximum juiciness.
- Garnish Freshness: The chopped parsley isn't just for looks - it adds a bright, fresh element to the rich dish.
- Experiment with Sides: This versatile chicken pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, pasta, or a crisp salad.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 110mg
