I’m always chasing that perfect balance of flavor and simplicity—especially on weeknights. That’s why this one-pan baked lemon garlic chicken recipe quickly became a family favorite. It’s tangy, garlicky, juicy, and so easy you can get dinner on the table in just 30 minutes!
Whether you’re cooking with chicken breasts or thighs—or aiming for an accessible low-carb chicken dinner—this dish hits every note and tastes really good.
Lemon Garlic Chicken
Course: DinnerCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy4
servings10
minutes20
minutes300
kcalIngredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
3 tbsp olive oil (plus a bit more for pan)
Juice & zest of 1 large lemon
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
Salt & pepper to taste
Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for extra kick
Fresh herbs (parsley or thyme) and lemon slices for garnish
Directions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare marinade: whisk olive oil, lemon juice, zest, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Marinate chicken for at least 10 minutes (or up to 30) while your oven preheats.
- Heat oven-safe skillet or pan, add a splash of oil, and sear chicken 2–3 minutes per side until golden.
- Add pan marinade, spoon over chicken; nestle lemon slices around, then roast for 15–20 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F internal temp.
- Let rest 5 minutes, garnish with herbs, serve warm—with pan sauce.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for best flavor
- Sear chicken first for better crust and caramelization
- Let chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy
- This sauce is great tossed with veggies or drizzled over greens
Why This Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe Works
- Lemon + garlic = flavor explosion every time
- Baked, not fried: healthy lemon garlic chicken with minimal oil
- Versatile: works with chicken thighs or breasts
- One pan cleanup, easy weeknight efficiency
- Cooked in under 30 minutes—ideal for quick chicken dinner success
From marinade to pan, this is exactly the kind of baked lemon garlic chicken dinner I turn to when I need nourishment without fuss.
Pro Tips for Juicy Lemon Garlic Chicken
- Thin the breasts or use thighs for faster cooking and juicier results
- Don’t overbake—check internal temperature at 165 °F
- Let it rest before slicing to keep the juices locked in
- Turn off oven and let the chicken sit in sauce for 2–3 minutes to absorb flavor
If you’re enjoying recipes like this and leaning toward low-carb or keto-style eating, having a solid meal plan can take a lot of pressure off. I’ve learned that deciding what to cook is often harder than actually cooking. That’s where a well-structured keto meal plan helps. Watch now
Variations & Add-Ins
- One-pan traybake style: add chopped potatoes, broccoli or zucchini in the same pan for a full meal
- Creamy sauce version: stir in a splash of Greek yogurt after baking for a velvety pan-sauce twist
- Herb boost: add fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs before baking for deeper aroma
- Low-carb spin: serve chicken over riced cauliflower or sautéed spinach
Nutritional Benefits
This healthy lemon garlic chicken recipe is designed to be light yet satisfying:
- High in protein, low in carbs (great for low-carb diets)
- Healthy fats from olive oil
- Lemon & garlic offer antioxidants and immune benefits
- Skinless pieces reduce saturated fat while staying flavorful
Suggested Pairings
- Roasted veggies: broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini tossed in the same lemon-garlic marinade
- Simple greens: a side spinach salad with vinaigrette
- Cauliflower mash or quinoa for a grain option
- Dense Bean Salad for a contrasting plant-based side
Make It Part of Your Weekly Dinner Rotation
This lemon garlic chicken recipe isn’t just a one-time win—it’s one of those meals you’ll find yourself craving again and again. I keep it in my weekly meal prep routine because it checks every box:
- ✔️ Quick to make on a busy night
- ✔️ Clean ingredients I already have in my kitchen
- ✔️ Flexible enough to pair with whatever veggies or sides I have on hand
- ✔️ Family-approved (yes, even the picky eaters)
✨ Pro tip: Make a double batch and use leftovers for wraps, grain bowls, or chopped into salad the next day.
If you’re building out a list of go-to healthy chicken dinners, this one deserves a permanent spot. Let me know if you add it to your regular rotation—and how you served it up this week!
FAQ: Quick Chicken Dinner Tips
Can I use chicken thighs?
Absolutely! They stay super juicy and crispy—bake just until they read 170°F.
Breast vs. thigh cooking time?
Thighs may take a minute or two longer—use a thermometer to avoid overcooking.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes—use two skillets or sheet pans. Just ensure pieces don’t overlap for proper roasting.
How to make it low-carb?
Serve with leafy salad or cauliflower rice instead of potatoes or rice.
Final Thoughts
If you want an easy, flavorful chicken dinner that cooks in under 30 minutes and feels like it belongs in a restaurant menu—this lemon garlic chicken is it. It hits all your keywords: juicy, easy, healthy, baked, low carb, quick… and I’m willing to bet it’ll become your go-to too.
Made it? Let me know—did you use breast or thighs? Add herbs or potatoes? Drop a comment below or tag me on social—I’d love to see your twist!
