Argentina is known for its delectable cuisine, especially its grilled meat dishes. Among the favorite dishes in Argentina is the grilled lemon chicken recipe. This recipe is popular during summer barbeques, and it is a great choice for healthy and delicious meals. The recipe originates from the Central East region of Argentina, and it has become a favorite among locals and tourists alike due to its zesty flavor and ease of cooking. In this article, we will explore the Argentine grilled lemon chicken recipe, its origin, and ingredients.
Origin
Central East Argentina is home to the famous Argentine grill or asado, which is a traditional cooking style of the country. The asado uses charcoal or firewood to prepare meat dishes, and it is famous for its smoky flavor. Argentine grilled lemon chicken recipe is one of the popular dishes prepared using this technique.
Ingredients
The Argentine grilled lemon chicken recipe is simple but flavorful. The primary ingredients of the recipe include chicken, lemon juice, garlic, onion, olive oil, and seasoning.
Chicken
Chicken is the main ingredient of this recipe. You can use boneless or bone-in chicken breasts, thighs, or drumsticks. The bone-in chicken may require a little longer cooking time, but it is more flavorful.
Lemon Juice
Lemon is an important ingredient of this recipe as it gives the dish a citrusy and tangy flavor. You can use fresh lemon juice or bottled lemon juice, but fresh is always better.
Garlic
Garlic is a vital ingredient that adds depth to the dish's flavor. You can use garlic powder or fresh garlic cloves to taste.
Onion
Onion adds a sweet, robust flavor to the dish, and it is also an excellent source of nutrients.
Olive oil
Olive oil is an essential ingredient used in many Argentine dishes. It adds a rich, earthy flavor to the dish and also has several health benefits.
Seasoning
Seasoning is a crucial element of any dish, and the Argentine grilled lemon chicken recipe is no exception. You can use salt, pepper, oregano, thyme or any other seasonings that you prefer.
Preparation
Preparing Argentine grilled lemon chicken is easy and straightforward. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Marinate the chicken
In a large bowl, mix the lemon juice, garlic, onion, olive oil, and seasoning. Then, add the chicken pieces to the mixture and make sure that all the parts of the chicken are coated evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least two hours or overnight.
Step 2: Prepare the grill
Prepare your grill by heating the coals or firewood until they are hot. Then, oil the grates to prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill.
Step 3: Grill the chicken
Grill the chicken over medium heat, turning occasionally until it is thoroughly cooked. The chicken is cooked when the internal temperature is 165°F or 75°C.
Serving Suggestions
Argentine grilled lemon chicken is delicious when served hot off the grill. You can serve it with a side of grilled vegetables such as peppers, onions, and zucchini. You can also serve it with a side of rice or a salad.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Argentine grilled lemon chicken recipe is a simple yet flavorful dish that is easy to prepare. The zesty and tangy flavor of the dish makes it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. So, next time you are hosting a summer barbeque, try out the Argentine grilled lemon chicken recipe, and you will not be disappointed.
Argentine grilled lemon chicken recipe is a simple, yet flavorful dish with chicken coated in a marinade of garlic, olive oil, and fresh lemon juice. This dish is perfect for summertime barbecue and can be served as a main dish or a side dish.
Grilling chicken takes a little technique and practice to master, but once you have the hang of it, your guests will be impressed with your cooking skills. In this article, we will provide you with valuable tips when making Argentine grilled lemon chicken recipes that will help you to achieve a perfect grilled chicken every time.
Tips for selecting chicken
When it comes to making Argentine grilled lemon chicken recipe, selecting the right chicken is critical. Choose fresh, high-quality chicken that is free from any bruises or blemishes. Whether you prefer to use whole chicken or chicken pieces, it is important to choose the right one for grilling.
Whole chicken
If you plan to cook a whole chicken for the Argentine grilled lemon chicken recipe, select a medium-sized chicken that weighs around 3-4 pounds. This size chicken cooks quickly and will ensure that the meat remains moist and tender.
Chicken pieces
If you prefer to use chicken pieces, such as breasts, thighs, or wings, select uniform-sized pieces for even cooking. You can either purchase pre-cut chicken pieces or cut chicken yourself. However, if you are cutting chicken yourself, be sure to use a sharp knife and follow food safety guidelines.
Marinade preparation
The marinade is the key to the success of this recipe. It is a combination of garlic, olive oil, and fresh lemon juice that infuses the chicken with a bright, tangy flavor.
Marinating time
To ensure maximum flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator. The longer you marinate the chicken, the better it will taste.
Marinade application
When applying the marinade, be generous and coat the chicken pieces thoroughly. Use a brush or your hands to make sure that the marinade is evenly distributed all over the chicken. This will help to keep the chicken moist during grilling.
Grilling technique
Now that you have the chicken marinated and ready to grill, it’s time to perfect your grilling technique.
Temperature
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375-400°F. This temperature ensures that the chicken is cooked through but not overcooked.
Direct and indirect heat
When grilling the chicken, start by placing the chicken pieces on the direct heat side of the grill for 3-4 minutes per side to get a nice sear. Then, move the chicken pieces to the indirect heat side of the grill and continue cooking until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F. This method allows the chicken to cook evenly without burning.
Basting
While grilling, baste the chicken with the leftover marinade or a basting sauce. This adds moisture and flavor to the chicken while giving it a nice glaze.
Resting and serving
After grilling, let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before cutting into it. This helps to keep the juices inside the meat, resulting in a juicy and flavorful chicken.
Serving suggestions
Argentine grilled lemon chicken recipe pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as grilled vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a fresh side salad. You can also serve it with a refreshing sauce, such as chimichurri, salsa verde, or aioli.
Conclusion
In conclusion, making Argentine grilled lemon chicken recipe is easy and requires some preparation and good grilling techniques. With the right tips and tricks, you can create a delicious and juicy chicken that will impress your guests. Select high-quality chicken, marinate it for a few hours, grill on direct and indirect heat, and rest it before serving. With these tips, you’re sure to create a perfect Argentine grilled lemon chicken recipe.