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–+ servings
Lemon Basil Chicken

Lemon Basil Chicken: Flavor-Packed Delight for Home Cooks

Lemon Basil Chicken is a flavorful and effortless recipe that combines citrus and herbs for juicy, tender meat.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 4 pieces
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Marinade
  • 1 medium Lemon Adds acidity and brightness; substitute with lime for a lively twist.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Melted; provides richness and a golden finish; use olive oil for a lighter option.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt Enhances all flavors; adjust to taste.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Pepper Offers a gentle kick; freshly ground pepper boosts the flavor profile.
Chicken
  • 1 whole Broiler/Fryer Chicken 3 to 4 pounds; ensure it's fresh for the best results.
  • 2 Peeled Garlic Cloves Divided; infuses warmth and depth.
  • 1/4 cup Minced Fresh Basil Divided; elevates the dish with its aromatic flavor.

Equipment

  • Roasting Pan
  • Rack
  • Meat thermometer

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Zest the medium lemon and set aside.
  2. Squeeze juice from half the lemon into a small bowl. Slice one garlic clove thinly to stuff into the chicken's cavity along with the remaining lemon half and two tablespoons of minced fresh basil.
  3. Place the chicken on the roasting rack. Drizzle reserved lemon juice all over the chicken.
  4. Combine melted butter with reserved lemon zest and remaining minced garlic in a small bowl. Rub this mixture over the chicken.
  5. Rub the chicken with salt, pepper, and leftover minced basil. Roast uncovered for 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes.
  6. Check internal temperature aiming for 180°F (82°C) in the thigh. If undercooked, give an additional 5-10 minutes.
  7. Let the chicken rest for 15 minutes before carving and serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1pieceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 32gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 400mgVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 8mg

Notes

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Consider additional vegetables in the roasting pan for a complete meal.

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