Lemon Chicken Recipe

There’s something magical about the combination of tender chicken and tangy lemon. As the citrusy aroma fills your kitchen, you’ll know you’re in for a treat. This Lemon Chicken recipe is a weeknight wonder—quick, easy, and bursting with fresh flavors the whole family will enjoy.

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I first discovered the joy of Lemon Chicken during a vacation in the Mediterranean, where lemons seemed to enhance every dish. Bringing that inspiration home, I’ve created a simple version that’s as comforting as it is vibrant. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Chicken

Get ready to fall in love with the easiest and tastiest way to elevate chicken. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, this Lemon Chicken recipe checks all the boxes.

It’s fast and fuss-free. With just a few staple ingredients and minimal prep, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on the table in under 30 minutes.

The flavor is unbeatable. Bright, zesty lemon juice combined with fragrant garlic and herbs creates a sauce that’s simultaneously refreshing and savory.

Healthy and wholesome. This recipe is naturally low-carb and gluten-free, making it a great option for a variety of diets without sacrificing flavor.

It’s versatile. Serve it over rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables, and you’ve got a complete meal that adapts to your pantry and preferences.

Ready to bring a burst of sunshine to your dinner table? Let’s talk ingredients!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Lemon Chicken lies in its simplicity, but don’t let that fool you. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating its signature flavor.

• Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here. They cook quickly and absorb the lemony goodness beautifully. If you prefer, you can use thighs for a richer flavor.
• Lemons: Fresh lemon juice is a must! It brings that vibrant citrus zing to the dish. You’ll also want some lemon zest to enhance the aroma.
• Garlic: Minced garlic adds depth and a touch of savory richness that complements the brightness of the lemon.
• Chicken Broth: This forms the base of the sauce, giving it a silky, savory quality. If you’re in a pinch, vegetable broth works too.
• Butter and Olive Oil: A combination of butter and olive oil ensures the chicken browns beautifully while maintaining a light, velvety sauce.

For equipment, all you need is a large skillet and a trusty zester for the lemon. Now let’s get cooking!

How to Make Lemon Chicken

Making this Lemon Chicken is as simple as it gets. With just a few easy steps, you’ll have a flavorful meal ready to serve.

1. Prepare the Chicken
   Start by seasoning both sides of your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder. This ensures the chicken is flavorful all the way through.
2. Sear the Chicken
   Heat a mixture of olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted and the pan is hot, add the chicken. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce
   In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to deglaze it. Add lemon juice and zest, then simmer the sauce for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly.
4. Return the Chicken
   Place the chicken back into the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to soak up the lemony goodness.
5. Garnish and Serve
   Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and thin lemon slices for garnish. Serve hot over your favorite side dish.

This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), Lemon Chicken stores wonderfully for easy meals later.

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Be sure to include extra sauce to keep the chicken moist.
• Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Let the chicken thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm the chicken and sauce gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the chicken tough.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, so feel free to make it your own!

• Herbs: Swap parsley for fresh thyme or rosemary for an earthy twist.
• Protein: Try this recipe with thinly sliced pork chops or even salmon fillets for a different spin.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat.
• Make it creamy: Stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream or Greek yogurt for a richer sauce.
• Low-sodium option: Use low-sodium chicken broth and reduce added salt if you’re watching your intake.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorite ingredients—you might just discover a new go-to version!

With its tangy, savory flavor and foolproof method, this Lemon Chicken is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So grab some lemons and get cooking—you’re going to love this recipe!

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