Mediterranean Lemon Chicken

Mediterranean Lemon Chicken

Author: Chef Elsa Prep Time: 30 min
Cook Time: 30 min Total Time: 60 min
Yield: 4 servings Category: Dishes Cuisine: Mediterranean Diet: Paleo

Description

Description A bright, sun-kissed dish that balances tangy lemon, savory garlic, and briny olives with tender roasted chicken—perfect for a weeknight dinner or relaxed weekend meal.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken breasts (skinless, boneless)
  • 2 – 3 lemons (juice and zest from 1–2; additional wedges for serving)
  • 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 3 – 4 cloves garlic, crushed or minced
  • 1 cup olives (Kalamata or mixed Mediterranean olives), pitted and halved if large
  • 2 – 3 tablespoons fresh herbs (a mix of thyme, oregano, and parsley), roughly chopped
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice (from 1–2 lemons), lemon zest, crushed garlic, a generous pinch of salt, and several grinds of black pepper.
  3. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or resealable bag and pour the marinade over them. Turn to coat thoroughly. Marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours for more flavor — don’t exceed 4 hours for best texture).
  4. Arrange the marinated chicken breasts in a single layer in a baking dish. Scatter the olives and the chopped fresh herbs around and over the chicken.
  5. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the thickest part of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear.
  6. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional chopped herbs and lemon wedges.

Notes

  1. Notes
  2. Serve over couscous or orzo to soak up the juices. Can be made a sheet-pan meal by adding baby potatoes and tomatoes.