Ina Garten's Lemon Chicken Recipe

Name: Ina Garten's Lemon Chicken
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ¼ cup olive oil; 3 tablespoons minced garlic (8-9 cloves); ⅓ cup dry white wine; 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 2 lemons); 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 1 lemon); 1 ½ teaspoons dried oregano; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves; Salt and pepper to taste (optional); 4 boneless, skin-on chicken breasts, 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, or 2 skin-on half chickens, patted dry; Slices of lemon (from remaining lemon after zesting)

Jump to Recipe

Ina Garten’s Lemon Chicken is a dish that combines simplicity with flavor, making it a perfect addition to your weekly dinner rotation. This recipe, from the Barefoot Contessa herself, is a juicy and flavorful chicken dish, with a sauce that is both bright and earthy. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or trying to impress someone special, this recipe is sure to satisfy. With ingredients like fresh garlic, lemon zest, and white wine, it delivers a delightful blend of tangy and savory flavors that everyone will enjoy. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that is both easy to make and full of taste.

Why Ina Garten’s Lemon Chicken Recipe is a Must-Try

Ina Garten’s Lemon Chicken Recipe is not only quick and easy to make but also versatile and delicious. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The simplicity of the dish doesn’t take away from the richness of flavor, making it a go-to meal for any home cook. The key to its success lies in the sauce, which is a mixture of fresh garlic, white wine, herbs, and lemon. The chicken is cooked perfectly, with crispy skin and juicy meat, all soaked in the flavorful sauce. It’s a dinner that everyone will love, and the best part is that it can be prepared in advance and baked later, making it a convenient choice for busy days.

Ingredients

• Olive oil: Adds richness and is used to cook the garlic, creating a flavorful base for the sauce.
• Minced garlic: Brings a fragrant, savory depth to the dish.
• Dry white wine: Offers acidity and depth, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the sauce.
• Lemon zest: Infuses the sauce with a fresh, citrusy aroma.
• Lemon juice: Adds a tangy, refreshing burst that complements the richness of the chicken.
• Dried oregano: Provides earthy, herby notes that balance the bright lemon flavor.
• Fresh thyme leaves: Adds a fragrant, fresh herb note to the sauce.
• Salt and pepper: Season to taste for perfect balance.
• Chicken breasts or thighs: The main protein, cooked with skin for extra crispiness and flavor.
• Lemon slices: Placed under the skin to enhance the lemony flavor and aroma.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re looking for alternatives or need to make adjustments based on what’s available, here are a few swaps:

• Chicken Broth: If you don’t have dry white wine on hand, you can substitute it with chicken broth for a more savory flavor.
• Fresh Herbs: If you don’t have thyme or oregano, feel free to experiment with rosemary or basil for a different herby profile.
• Skinless Chicken: If you prefer, you can use skinless chicken breasts, but keep in mind the texture and flavor may be slightly different.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and get a baking dish ready.

In a small saucepan, warm the olive oil over low heat. Add the minced garlic and stir until fragrant, making sure not to let the garlic brown.
Stir together the white wine, lemon zest, and lemon juice, then add the dried oregano and fresh thyme. Whisk the mixture into the warm olive oil and garlic, and season with salt and pepper.
Pour about half of the wine and oil mixture into your baking dish. Place the chicken on top, skin side up, and tuck the lemon slices under the chicken skin.

Pour the remaining sauce over the chicken.
Roast the chicken in the oven for about 30-50 minutes, depending on whether you’re using chicken breasts or thighs. The chicken is done when its juices run clear, and the skin is golden and crispy.
If the skin isn’t as crispy as you’d like, broil the chicken for 1-2 minutes to achieve a perfect golden brown finish.

Once done, remove from the oven and cover with aluminum foil. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Tips & Tricks

• Don’t skip the resting time! Allowing the chicken to rest ensures the juices redistribute, keeping the meat tender and moist.
• If you marinate the chicken ahead of time, the flavors will deepen, making the dish even more flavorful.
• For a smoother sauce, consider straining out the garlic and herbs after cooking and serving the sauce separately.
• You can make the sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it, then simply pour it over the chicken and bake when you’re ready.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

This Ina Garten’s Lemon Chicken Recipe dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, making it a versatile choice for dinner. Serve it over a bed of rice, quinoa, or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal. You could also pair it with a simple green salad for a lighter option. For variations, try adding a splash of cream to the sauce for a richer, creamier version. Additionally, a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan can elevate the flavors further.

Seasonal Twist

If you’re making this Ina Garten’s Lemon Chicken Recipe dish in the summer, consider pairing it with a side of fresh tomatoes and basil for a more seasonal touch. You can even swap the dried oregano for fresh herbs from your garden, such as rosemary or sage, to enhance the dish’s rustic flavors.

This recipe is an easy and flavorful way to prepare chicken, and with Ina Garten’s expertise, it’s guaranteed to be a hit at your dinner table.

Conclusion

Ina Garten’s Lemon Chicken Recipe is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings a burst of freshness and comfort to any meal. With the perfect balance of garlic, lemon, herbs, and white wine, this recipe elevates your chicken to a whole new level. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a special meal for loved ones, this dish is sure to impress. The ease of preparation and delicious, tangy sauce make it a favorite in many households. So, grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and indulge in a comforting, flavorful chicken dish that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

FAQ

1. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken for Ina Garten’s Lemon Chicken Recipe?

While the recipe traditionally uses skin-on chicken for the crispy texture and juicy meat, you can certainly use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. However, be sure to adjust the cooking time, as boneless chicken will cook faster. For best results, check the internal temperature and remove the chicken when it reaches 165°F.

2. Can I substitute the dry white wine in the Ina Garten’s Lemon Chicken Recipe?

Yes, if you don’t have dry white wine or prefer not to use alcohol, you can substitute it with an equal amount of chicken broth or vegetable broth. The broth will add savory depth, but the wine provides a slight acidity that enhances the sauce’s flavor.

3. How long can I store leftovers of Ina Garten’s Lemon Chicken Recipe?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. The sauce will keep the chicken moist and flavorful.

More Relevant Recipes

Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice Recipe: A Quick, Flavorful One-Pot Meal