Lemon Chicken Recipe

There's nothing quite like the zesty aroma of lemon chicken sizzling in the pan. This vibrant dish combines tender chicken with a tangy, citrus-infused sauce that’s perfectly balanced by just the right amount of savory seasoning.

this Recipe

I first made this recipe on a whim when I had extra lemons in my fridge, and it quickly became a staple in our home. Not only is it quick and easy, but it’s also elegant enough to impress guests or add a bright twist to your weeknight routine. Let’s dive into why this Lemon Chicken recipe deserves a spot in your rotation.

Why You'll Love This Lemon Chicken Recipe

Get ready to fall head over heels for this light and flavorful dish. Lemon chicken is as versatile as it is delicious, making it a go-to for families and foodies alike.

First off, it’s incredibly simple to make. With just a handful of pantry staples and fresh lemons, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights when time is tight!

This dish is also wonderfully refreshing. The combination of zesty lemon, fragrant garlic, and tender chicken creates a lively, feel-good meal that won’t weigh you down.

Looking to feed a crowd? Lemon chicken scales effortlessly, making it ideal for entertaining. Pair it with rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables, and you’ve got a meal everyone will adore.

Finally, this recipe is highly adaptable. Whether you prefer chicken thighs for their richness or lean chicken breasts, it works beautifully with either cut.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this lemon chicken recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. Each component contributes to the dish’s bright and satisfying flavor.

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best here. Thighs add a bit more richness, while breasts provide a leaner option. Make sure to pound the chicken to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
• Lemons: Fresh lemons are key for this recipe. You’ll need both the juice and zest to achieve that signature citrusy kick. Bottled lemon juice doesn’t compare!
• Garlic: Minced fresh garlic adds depth and aroma. If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add an extra clove or two.
• Chicken Broth: A splash of broth helps create a luscious sauce without being overly heavy. You can use vegetable broth if you prefer.
• Flour: A light dusting of flour helps the chicken achieve a golden crust while thickening the sauce slightly.
• Butter and Olive Oil: This combination is perfect for cooking the chicken and creating a silky sauce. The butter adds richness, while the olive oil prevents burning.

For equipment, all you’ll need is a large skillet, a zester, and a juicer to make this recipe come together with ease.

How To Make This Lemon Chicken Recipe

Creating this lemon chicken is easier than you might think. Let’s break it down step by step.

Start by prepping the chicken. Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound them with a rolling pin or meat mallet until they’re about ½ inch thick. This step ensures even cooking and helps the chicken stay juicy.

Next, coat the chicken lightly in flour, shaking off any excess. The flour gives the chicken a golden crust and thickens the sauce just slightly.

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a combination of butter and olive oil. Once the butter has melted and starts to sizzle, add the chicken in a single layer. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Then, pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits. Stir in the lemon juice and zest, bringing the sauce to a gentle simmer.

Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes so the chicken absorbs the vibrant flavors. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and serve immediately.

This dish takes about 25 minutes from start to finish, making it an excellent choice for a quick and impressive dinner.

Storage Options

Lemon chicken stores beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers.

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day.
• Freeze: To freeze, place the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm the chicken gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to keep the sauce from thickening too much. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this lemon chicken recipe is how easy it is to customize. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

• Add Veggies: Toss in some sautéed spinach, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes for a complete one-pan meal.
• Make It Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream to transform the sauce into a creamy delight.
• Herb It Up: Swap parsley for fresh basil, thyme, or oregano for a different herbal twist.
• Switch the Protein: This recipe works wonderfully with thin-cut pork chops or turkey cutlets if you want to switch it up.
• Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch for dredging the chicken to make this dish celiac-friendly.

Experiment with these variations to discover your favorite version of lemon chicken. No matter how you prepare it, this recipe is sure to brighten your table and your taste buds!

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