Are you a fan of classic lemon herb chicken but want to elevate the experience? This cannabis-infused version takes traditional flavors to new heights. Whether you're new to cooking with cannabis or a seasoned pro, this recipe is an exciting way to enjoy the taste and benefits of this versatile herb. Here’s how to create your own Cannabis-Infused Lemon Herb Chicken.
Understanding the Basics of Cannabis Infusion
Cooking with cannabis is more than just adding the plant to your recipe. For a flavorful and effective dish, it’s best to use cannabis-infused oil or butter. This recipe calls for cannabis-infused olive oil, which you can prepare in advance or purchase at a dispensary. The cannabis infusion pairs beautifully with the citrus and herb flavors, offering a deliciously earthy undertone.
Ingredients for Cannabis-Infused Lemon Herb Chicken
This recipe serves 4-6 people.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
- ¼ cup cannabis-infused olive oil (around 5-10 mg THC per serving; adjust for potency preferences)
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 3-4 tablespoons)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 lemon, sliced for garnish
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Preparing Cannabis-Infused Olive Oil
If you don’t have cannabis-infused olive oil, you can make it yourself by following these steps:
- Decarboxylate the cannabis: Preheat your oven to 240°F (115°C). Spread ground cannabis (around 3.5 grams for this recipe) on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. This process activates THC and CBD.
- Infuse the oil: Place the decarboxylated cannabis and 1 cup of olive oil in a saucepan. Heat on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally. Strain through cheesecloth to remove plant material, then store the oil in a jar.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken
- In a large bowl, combine the cannabis-infused olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they’re fully coated. Cover the bowl and marinate for at least 1 hour in the fridge. For best results, marinate overnight.
2. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. Sear the Chicken
- Heat a non-infused olive oil drizzle in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear each chicken breast for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
4. Bake the Chicken
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Garnish and Serve
- Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Garnish with lemon slices and fresh parsley.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Cannabis-Infused Lemon Herb Chicken with sides that complement the citrus and herb flavors. Lightly roasted asparagus, a fresh green salad, or garlic mashed potatoes make wonderful additions. This recipe is great for a relaxing evening meal and pairs well with light white wines.
Dosing and Consumption Tips
Start low and go slow with cannabis-infused foods. The effects can take up to 2 hours to kick in and may last several hours. Beginners may wish to reduce the amount of cannabis-infused olive oil in the recipe, or use regular olive oil for half of the marinade to lower potency.
Cannabis-Infused Lemon Herb Chicken offers a fun twist on a classic dish, perfect for those looking to combine great taste with a mild, relaxing cannabis experience. With each bite, you'll enjoy the savory notes of rosemary, thyme, and lemon while experiencing the unique benefits of cannabis.
Let me know if you give it a try or if you have your own infusion tips to share!