Lemon chicken is like a bright ray of sunshine on your dinner plate. Imagine biting into tender, juicy chicken infused with zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and a hint of herbs that dance on your taste buds. The dish is not only delicious but also fills your kitchen with a refreshing fragrance that can make even the grumpiest of cats purr in delight.
This delightful recipe holds a special place in my heart. I first made it for my family on a warm summer evening, and the smiles around the table were priceless. It’s perfect for those casual family dinners or when you want to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen. Get ready for a flavor explosion that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Lemon chicken offers incredible flavor that brightens any meal, all while being easy to prepare
- With vibrant colors and aromas, it’s sure to wow your guests at any dinner table
- The versatile recipe works wonderfully for grilling, baking, or pan-searing, making it perfect for any occasion
I remember the first time I served lemon chicken; my brother’s eyes widened as he took his first bite, and he exclaimed it was better than any restaurant’s version.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust depending on how many people you’re feeding.
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Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for an aromatic punch; fresh is always best here.
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Fresh Lemons: Use juicy lemons to extract maximum flavor; their zest adds brightness to the dish.
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Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth enhances flavor without overwhelming saltiness; it keeps things balanced.
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Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil adds richness and depth; don’t skimp here.
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Herbs (Thyme or Rosemary): Fresh herbs elevate the flavor profile; choose based on your preference for aroma.
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Sugar (optional): A pinch balances the acidity of the lemons and enhances overall flavor if desired.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prep Your Ingredients: Gather all ingredients and chop garlic finely. Zest two lemons and then juice them until you feel like you’ve got every drop out; we need all that zesty goodness.
Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix lemon juice, zest, minced garlic, olive oil, herbs, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and let them soak up these flavors for at least 30 minutes—trust me; it’s worth it.
Heat Things Up: Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat until it’s hot enough to sizzle. Add a splash of olive oil and swirl it around like you’re auditioning for a cooking show.
Sear the Chicken: Place marinated chicken in the skillet carefully. Sear each side for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown—don’t forget to admire how beautiful they look!
Add Flavorful Liquid: Pour in chicken broth and let everything bubble away. Scrape up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom of the pan—those are pure flavor gold!
Finish Cooking & Serve**: Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce heat to low. Let it simmer for another 10-15 minutes or until chicken is cooked through; its internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Serve hot with some fresh herbs sprinkled on top!
Now you have a mouthwatering lemon chicken dish that’s sure to impress! Enjoy every flavorful bite!
You Must Know
- Lemon chicken is a delightful dish that brightens any dinner table
- The zesty flavor pairs beautifully with various sides, making it incredibly versatile
- Plus, the aroma of lemon and herbs fills your kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere for family gatherings
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken in lemon juice and herbs while you prepare your sides. This allows the flavors to deepen, ensuring a juicy chicken bursting with citrus goodness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the herbs or add some garlic for an extra kick. You can also experiment with different citrus fruits for a unique twist on traditional lemon chicken.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven to maintain that tender texture and zesty flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly juicy lemon chicken, avoid overcooking—use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature
- Let it rest before slicing; this keeps juices intact, enhancing flavor
- Pair with seasonal veggies for color and nutrition, elevating your dish to a culinary masterpiece!
A memorable moment was when I served this lemon chicken at my family reunion. Everyone raved about how flavorful it was, making me feel like a culinary superstar!
FAQ
What can I serve with lemon chicken?
Lemon chicken pairs well with rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for balance.
Can I use other meats besides chicken?
Absolutely! This marinade works wonderfully with pork or fish for delightful variations.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate for at least 30 minutes, but overnight yields even more flavor and tenderness.
Lemon Chicken
Bright and zesty, this Lemon Chicken recipe brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table. Infused with fresh garlic, lemon juice, and aromatic herbs, this dish is easy to prepare and perfect for impressing family and friends. Whether grilled or seared, each bite delivers juicy chicken that’s sure to become a household favorite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Searing
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 2 large lemons (zested and juiced)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tsp fresh thyme or rosemary (or a mix)
- 1 tsp sugar (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1. Prep your ingredients: Mince the garlic, zest the lemons, and juice them.
- 2. Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, combine lemon juice, zest, garlic, olive oil, herbs, salt, pepper, and optional sugar. Add the chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- 3. Heat your skillet over medium-high heat. Add a splash of olive oil.
- 4. Sear the chicken: Place marinated chicken in the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- 5. Add broth: Pour in the chicken broth and scrape any bits from the pan. Cover and simmer on low for 10-15 minutes until cooked through (internal temperature should be 165°F).
- 6. Serve hot with fresh herbs sprinkled on top.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (150g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
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