This Easy Lemon Chicken is fresh and zesty, perfect for any dinner night! With juicy chicken cooked in a tangy lemon sauce, it’s sure to brighten your taste buds.
The best part? It’s so quick to make! Just toss everything in the pan, let it simmer, and enjoy a tasty meal that feels fancy without much effort. Trust me, you’ll want seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe. If you prefer, you can use thighs for more flavor, or even tofu for a vegetarian option!
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor. If you’re out of lemons, bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch, but the taste won’t be quite as bright.
Honey: I love using honey for a bit of sweetness. If you’re vegan, maple syrup is a perfect substitute to keep things plant-based.
Garlic: Fresh garlic kicks up the flavor! If you only have garlic powder, use about 1/4 teaspoon instead, but fresh is always preferred if you can manage it.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken to the right temperature can be tricky! Here are some tips to ensure it’s done just right:
- Use a meat thermometer: Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Let it rest: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy!
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if you need to, so that the chicken gets a nice sear.
Following these simple tips will help you achieve perfectly cooked chicken every time!
Easy Lemon Chicken Recipe with Zesty Flavor
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1-2 lemons)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or Italian seasoning)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon slices (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful lemon chicken recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need about 25 minutes from start to finish—a quick and refreshing dish for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by generously seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides. This will help bring out the flavors!
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for around 5-6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and thoroughly cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic, stirring for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
4. Make the Zesty Sauce:
Add the chicken broth, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, honey or maple syrup, and dried oregano to the skillet. Mix everything well and bring the sauce to a simmer.
5. Reduce the Sauce:
Allow the sauce to simmer for about 3-4 minutes until it slightly reduces and thickens up.
6. Finish with Butter:
Stir in the unsalted butter until it melts completely, giving the sauce a lovely glossy finish.
7. Combine and Heat:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Cook for another 2 minutes so that the chicken absorbs all those fantastic flavors!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and lemon slices for a beautiful presentation. Serve hot with your choice of side, such as rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables.
Enjoy this bright, tangy, and easy lemon chicken! It’s sure to be a hit with family and friends!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more flavor and moisture to the dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs might take a bit longer to cook fully. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Can I Use Bottled Lemon Juice?
Yes, you can use bottled lemon juice if you don’t have fresh lemons on hand. However, fresh lemon juice offers a brighter, more vibrant flavor that enhances the dish. Use the same amount as specified in the recipe.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover lemon chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to keep it moist.
What Can I Serve with This Chicken?
This zesty lemon chicken pairs perfectly with a variety of sides! Consider serving it over rice, pasta, or quinoa. It also goes well with steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or roasted potatoes for a complete meal.
