Easy and authentic: gino d’acampo’s lemon chicken recipe for home chefs

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Gino D’Acampo’s Lemon Chicken recipe, a culinary masterpiece that will ignite your taste buds and leave you craving for more. This delectable dish combines the vibrant zest of lemons with the succulent tenderness of chicken, creating a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your senses.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 large free-range chicken, jointed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Lemon Sauce:

• 100ml dry white wine
• Juice of 4 lemons
• Zest of 2 lemons
• 100g unsalted butter, cubed
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Preheat oven to 200°C (180°C fan-forced). In a large bowl, combine the chicken, olive oil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss well to coat.
2. Roast the Chicken: Spread the chicken pieces on a roasting tray and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown.
3. Make the Lemon Sauce: While the chicken is roasting, make the lemon sauce. In a saucepan, bring the white wine to a simmer. Reduce by half. Add the lemon juice and zest and bring to a boil.
4. Whisk in the Butter: Once the sauce has thickened slightly, remove from heat and whisk in the butter, one cube at a time. Stir until the butter is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. Add the Parsley: Stir in the chopped parsley and season to taste with additional salt and pepper if needed.
6. Assemble the Dish: Remove the chicken from the oven and place on a serving platter. Pour the lemon sauce over the chicken and garnish with lemon wedges.

Tips

• For a more intense lemon flavor, use freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest.
• If you don’t have dry white wine, you can use chicken stock or water instead.
• Serve the lemon chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes to complete the meal.

Variations

Lemon and Herb Chicken: Add 1 tbsp of chopped fresh rosemary and 1 tbsp of chopped fresh thyme to the lemon sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
Lemon and Garlic Chicken: Add 2 cloves of minced garlic to the lemon sauce for a more savory taste.
Lemon and Caper Chicken: Add 2 tbsp of capers to the lemon sauce for a tangy and salty addition.

Health Benefits of Lemon Chicken

Not only is lemon chicken a delicious dish, but it also offers several health benefits:

• Lemons are rich in vitamin C, which is an antioxidant that helps protect the body from free radical damage.
• Chicken is a lean source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues.
• Olive oil is a heart-healthy fat that can help lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Conclusion: A Culinary Delight for All Occasions

Gino D’Acampo’s Lemon Chicken recipe is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal, this flavorful and satisfying dish will surely impress.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use skinless, boneless chicken breasts for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use skinless, boneless chicken breasts. However, the cooking time may be reduced to 30-35 minutes.

Q: Can I make the lemon sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the lemon sauce ahead of time and reheat it before serving. Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: What can I serve with lemon chicken?
A: Lemon chicken pairs well with a variety of sides, including roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice.