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Marinating chicken is a crucial step that can elevate your dish from ordinary to extraordinary. The marinade not only infuses the chicken with flavor but also tenderizes the meat, making it juicier. For this Zesty One-Pan Lemon Garlic Herb Chicken, a marinating time of at least 30 minutes is recommended, though longer is always better. A minimum of 1-2 hours allows the lemon juice and herbs to penetrate the chicken, enhancing its taste and texture.

One-Pan Lemon Garlic Herb Chicken

Discover the joy of cooking with this Zesty One-Pan Lemon Garlic Herb Chicken recipe! Perfect for busy nights, this flavorful dish combines juicy chicken thighs, bright lemon, and fresh herbs for a vibrant meal that’s ready in no time. With minimal cleanup and packed with nutritious ingredients, it’s easy to see why one-pan meals are so popular. Enjoy a delightful culinary experience that’s both satisfying and healthy for your family!

Ingredients
  

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 1 lb)

2 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 lemons (1 for juice, 1 sliced)

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon paprika

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup baby spinach

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Set aside a few tablespoons of the marinade for later.

    Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable bag or a shallow dish; pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight in the fridge for better flavor).

      Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

        Sear the Chicken: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken thighs and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.

          Add Vegetables: Once the chicken is seared, add the cherry tomatoes and spinach to the pan. Drizzle the reserved marinade over the vegetables and chicken, then nestle slices of lemon around the dish.

            Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (165°F internal temperature).

              Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot, spooning the cherry tomato and spinach mixture over the chicken.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 mins | 40 mins | Serves 4