This simple lemon and garlic chicken is tender, flavourful, and easy to prepare. Slow cooking over low heat keeps the chicken soft and juicy, making it suitable for the whole family. The gentle seasoning allows adults to add extra flavour at the table while keeping the base meal toddler-friendly.
Chicken provides high-quality protein, iron, and B vitamins that support growth and immune health. Olive oil, garlic, onion, and lemon contribute healthy fats, antioxidants, and vitamin C, supporting digestion and nutrient absorption, while saffron contains natural antioxidant compounds.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Marinating Time: 30 minutes minimum, 4–12 hours recommended for best flavour
Cook time: about 40 minutes
Serves: 5 servings ***
Total Calories (Whole Recipe) Approximately: 2,000 kcal
Ingredients
- 1 kg chicken thighs (skinless), each cut into 3 pieces
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 3 tbsp)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, finely grated
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp sea salt (optional)
- ¼ tsp saffron
Equipment
- Mixing bowl with lid to refrigerate
- Pan
- Pan lid
- Spoon or tongs
Instructions
- Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl. Add the lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, onion, black pepper, salt (if using), and saffron.
- Mix well until the chicken is evenly coated in the marinade.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For best flavour, marinate for 4–12 hours. Make-Ahead & Storage Notes
- Heat a pan over low heat.
- Add the desired amount of chicken along with the marinade to the pan, cover with a lid, and cook gently over low heat until the chicken is tender and fully cooked, about 15–20 minutes per side.
- Remove from the heat and serve.
Toddler & Family Notes
- Marinated chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Cook only what you need and keep the rest chilled for later use.
- For the best texture and flavour, cooking the chicken fresh is recommended, as reheating cooked chicken may cause it to dry out.
- The marinated chicken can also be frozen for future meals. When ready to use, cook directly from frozen with the marinade, covered and on low heat. Allow extra cooking time and ensure it is fully cooked through.
- Cook gently over low heat and turn off the heat as soon as the chicken is tender to keep it soft and moist.
- Before serving to toddlers, cut the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces and allow it to cool completely.
- Omit or reduce salt when preparing this dish for toddlers, and always check that the chicken is thoroughly cooked.
- Serve with boiled or roasted potatoes, brown rice or a brown rice and quinoa mix, and pair with salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced family meal.
Macronutrients
- Protein: 30–32 g
- Fat: 18–20 g
- Carbohydrates: 4–5 g (Mostly from onion and lemon)
- Fiber: about 0.5 g
- Sodium: depends on salt used (optional)
*** Serving sizes are indicative only. Toddler portions may vary and should be based on your child’s age, appetite, and developmental stage.
