Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 20 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
270 | 8g | 2g | 7g |
sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
1g | 0.6g | 38g | 0.5g |
The Story Behind the Lemon Thyme Chicken Marinade
A harmonious dance between citrus and herb, there is an easy charm to the delightful Lemon Thyme Chicken Marinade that makes it irresistible. It is a recipe I hold close to my heart, as it evokes fond memories of my Pacific Northwest upbringing and the subtle influences of my Japanese heritage. Imagine a scenario where a classic American barbecue mingles with the fresh, zesty tones symbolic of Japanese Yuzu chicken, and you begin to perceive the beauty of this marinade.
Cultural Infusion in Every Bite
Growing up in Seattle, I was enchanted by the bountiful fresh produce of the Pacific Northwest. Everything from the scent of the sea to the juiciest fruits – anything that could be grown or found was significant to me. Incorporating one such treasure, fresh lemons, into this marinade encapsulates that lavishness. The thyme, on the other hand, nods toward the herbal elements abundant in Japanese cuisine. It’s this combination of my dual heritage that makes the Lemon Thyme Chicken Marinade an opus of taste and an indisputable sensory delight.
Health Benefits and Pairing Perfection
Beyond its delicious taste, the Lemon Thyme Chicken Marinade also brings impressive health advantages. Bursting with Vitamin C from the fresh lemon juice, it boosts immunity and aids digestion. Moreover, active compounds in thyme have been linked to health benefits ranging from antimicrobial to anticancer properties. The inclusion of heart-healthy olive oil, nature’s liquid gold, completes this health-conscious dish.
Whilst stunning on its own, this marinade pairs beautifully with savory companions. Consider serving this flavorful chicken with a light cucumber salad or pair with a crisp, dry white wine. Imagine a semi-dry Riesling from Washington State’s rain-kissed vineyards to keep the Pacific Northwest spirit alive and it seamlessly complements the unparalleled tanginess of the chicken marinade. The vibrant character of the marinade lends itself to both casual cookouts and elegant dinner parties alike – truly, a recipe for all seasons.
The Lemon Thyme Chicken Marinade encompasses multiple aspects of my culinary journey, deriving influence from my coastal upbringing and my cherished Japanese heritage. Laden with flavor, it’s a symphony of tangy lemons, fragrant thyme, and the mellow richness of olive oil. But above all, it is the embodiment of my culinary ethos, where every dish is an avenue to share a piece of my story.
What You’ll Need
- 1 1/2 cups fresh lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 6 boneless chicken breasts
Method
Step One
Start by squeezing fresh lemons to get 1 1/2 cups of juice. Set this aside.
Step Two
Take a bowl and add the 3 tablespoons of olive oil.
Step Three
In the same bowl, add the minced garlic cloves. You should have about 6 cloves minced.
Step Four
Now add the 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh thyme to the bowl.
Step Five
Next, season the mixture with 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Stir everything together until all the ingredients are well combined.
Step Six
Place the 6 boneless chicken breasts in a large dish or ziplock bag. Pour the lemon thyme marinade over the chicken, making sure all pieces are covered evenly.
Step Seven
Cover the dish or seal the bag and let the chicken marinate for at least 2 hours. For the best flavor, letting it marinate overnight in the fridge is highly recommended.
Step Eight
Before grilling or baking, let the chicken sit at room temperature for about 15-30 minutes. Cook as desired and enjoy the delicious Lemon Thyme Chicken!