Ina Garten Tuscan Lemon Chicken Recipe

Ina Garten Tuscan Lemon Chicken Recipe

This Ina Garten Tuscan Lemon Chicken is juicy and flavorful, which includes fresh lemon juice and rosemary. It’s a restaurant-quality dish, ready in about 50 minutes.

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Ina Garten Tuscan Lemon Chicken Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

  • 1 whole chicken (3–4 pounds), butterflied (or 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts/thighs)
  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons lemon zest
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried rosemary)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For Finishing:

  • 1 lemon, cut into wedges
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted (optional)
Ina Garten Tuscan Lemon Chicken Recipe

How To Make Ina Garten Tuscan Lemon Chicken

  1. Prepare the chicken: Butterfly the chicken by removing the backbone and flattening it, or use chicken breasts/thighs. Pat dry with paper towels to help the skin crisp.
  2. Make the marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, zest, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
  3. Marinate the chicken: Place chicken in a large dish or resealable bag. Pour marinade over and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
  4. Grill or roast the chicken:
    • Grill Method:
      • Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
      • Grill chicken skin-side down for 15–20 minutes.
      • Flip and grill another 20–25 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
      • Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
    • Oven Roasting Method:
      • Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
      • Place chicken skin-side up in a roasting pan.
      • Roast for 40–50 minutes, basting with melted butter in the last 10 minutes.
      • Check for 165°F internal temp. Rest for 10 minutes before carving.
  5. Serve and enjoy: Squeeze lemon wedges over the top and serve warm with your favorite sides.
Ina Garten Tuscan Lemon Chicken Recipe

Recipe Tips

  • What does butterflying a chicken mean?
    It means removing the backbone so the chicken can lie flat, which helps it cook more evenly.
  • How long can I marinate the chicken?
    At least 2 hours, but overnight is best for maximum flavor.
  • Can I use boneless chicken?
    Yes, but adjust the cook time to avoid overcooking.
  • What if I don’t have a grill?
    Use the oven roasting method—it turns out just as delicious.

What To Serve With Tuscan Lemon Chicken

This zesty chicken pairs well with light, fresh sides:

  • Roasted potatoes or vegetables
  • Arugula salad with vinaigrette
  • Grilled asparagus
  • Couscous or orzo pasta
  • Rustic Italian bread
Ina Garten Tuscan Lemon Chicken Recipe

How To Store Tuscan Lemon Chicken

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freeze: Freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Tuscan Lemon Chicken Nutrition Facts

  • Calories: 200
  • Protein: 26g
  • Fat: 3g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 725mg
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Vitamin C: 15mg
  • Calcium: 79mg
  • Iron: 2mg

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.

FAQs

Can I use lemon juice concentrate instead of fresh lemon?
Fresh lemon juice is best for flavor, but you can use concentrate in a pinch.

Why rest the chicken after cooking?
Resting helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat tender and moist.

Can I roast with vegetables?
Yes, add potatoes or carrots around the chicken for a one-pan meal.

Is this dish keto-friendly?
Yes, it’s low in carbs and high in protein.

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Ina Garten Tuscan Lemon Chicken Recipe

Recipe by SarahCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy
Servings

6

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

40

minutes
Calories

200

kcal

This Tuscan-style lemon chicken is marinated with lemon, garlic, and herbs, then grilled or roasted to juicy, golden perfection.

Ingredients

  • 1 whole chicken (3–4 lbs), butterflied

  • ¼ cup olive oil

  • ¼ cup lemon juice

  • 2 tbsp lemon zest

  • 4 garlic cloves, minced

  • 2 tbsp rosemary, chopped

  • 1 tbsp thyme leaves

  • 1 tsp kosher salt

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

  • 1 lemon (for wedges)

  • 2 tbsp melted butter (optional)

Directions

  • Butterfly chicken and pat dry.
  • Whisk marinade ingredients in a bowl.
  • Marinate chicken in the fridge for at least 2 hours.
  • Grill or roast as directed.
  • Rest for 10 minutes, then serve with lemon wedges.

Sarra

I’m Sarra Jhonson, the cook behind Tasty Treats Daily. In my tiny apartment kitchen, I try all kinds of recipes—weeknight dinners, baked treats, and quick sides—then refine them until they’re reliable. I write clear, step-by-step instructions in plain language, and I share what worked, what didn’t, and the tips that make it easier at home.