This vibrant Giada Amalfi Lemon Chicken is one of my favorites when I want something quick, easy, and totally delicious. It takes just 40-45 minutes to prepare. I love how the flavors pop—especially with the lemon zest and the herby taste of thyme and rosemary.

To make it extra special, I like to garnish it with fresh parsley. It’s simple, fun, and always makes me feel like I’m treating myself to something special.

Recipe Ingredients

• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 large lemons, zested and sliced
• 2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme leaves
• 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary leaves
• 2½ teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 chicken (about 3½ pounds), backbone and breastbone removed

How To Make Giada amalfi lemon chicken

Prepare the Chicken

1. Prep the Lemon Bed: Preheat your oven to 450°F. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil on a rimmed baking sheet. Arrange the lemon slices like a cozy bed for your chicken—it’s about to get snug in there!
2. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix together the lemon zest, thyme, rosemary, and salt. Sprinkle one-third of this magic blend on the chicken’s flesh side. Flip it over and rub the rest under and on top of the skin—don’t be shy!

Cook the Chicken

1. Roast to Perfection: Place the chicken skin side up on your lemon bed. Drizzle with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Roast for 40-45 minutes, basting every 15 minutes. It’s done when golden brown and the internal temp hits 160°F.

Make the Sauce

1. Squeeze Out the Flavor: While the chicken rests, use a fork to mash the lemon pulp into the pan juices. Discard the rinds—no one likes a bitter bite! Spoon this tangy sauce over the chicken before serving.

Recipe Tips

• Ingredient Substitution: Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt to keep the dish light and tangy while reducing calories. The acidity in the yogurt pairs beautifully with the lemon, creating a bright, refreshing flavor profile.
• Make Ahead: Prep the chicken and sauce separately up to 24 hours in advance. Store in airtight containers and combine when ready to cook for a stress-free, flavorful meal.
• Lemon Zest Hack: Use a microplane to zest the lemons for the finest, most aromatic zest. This ensures the citrus flavor distributes evenly without any bitter pieces, enhancing the dish’s vibrancy.
• Serving Suggestion: Serve the Amalfi lemon chicken with garlic roasted asparagus and herbed quinoa for a well-rounded, elegant meal. The bitterness of the asparagus balances the richness of the chicken perfectly.
• Cooking Technique Tip: Cook the chicken in a cast-iron skillet for a crispy crust. The even heat distribution ensures a golden-brown finish, adding texture to the dish while sealing in juicy flavors.

Recipe FAQs and Variations

Check out More Giada Recipes:

• Giada Limoncello Parfaits
• Giada Butternut Squash Tortelloni With Cranberry Walnut Sauce
• Giada Matcha Chicken Tenders With Soy Citrus