Lemon Chicken Recipe

There's nothing quite like the zesty aroma of Lemon Chicken sizzling in the pan to brighten up your evening. This dish combines tender, golden-brown chicken with a tangy, buttery lemon sauce that dances on your taste buds.

The first time I made this recipe, I was looking for something fresh and simple to pair with a side of rice and steamed vegetables. It quickly became a family favorite, especially during spring and summer when lighter, citrusy meals feel just right.

Ready to bring a little sunshine to your dinner table? Let’s dive into why this Lemon Chicken will become your new go-to recipe.

Why You'll Love This Lemon Chicken

Get ready to meet your new weeknight dinner hero! This Lemon Chicken is packed with flavor, surprisingly simple, and incredibly versatile.

First and foremost, it’s quick and easy to make. You can have this dish on the table in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner guests.

The flavors are absolutely restaurant-quality, but you don’t need to be a trained chef to nail it. The combination of fresh lemon juice, savory garlic, and a touch of butter creates a sauce that’s both elegant and comforting.

It’s also a family-friendly recipe. Even picky eaters will love the tender chicken and vibrant sauce. Plus, it pairs beautifully with almost anything – from pasta to mashed potatoes to a simple salad.

Finally, this dish is budget-friendly and uses pantry staples like chicken breasts, garlic, and lemons. No need to hunt down exotic ingredients or break the bank!

Ready to get started? Let’s talk ingredients.

Ingredients Notes

This Lemon Chicken recipe is all about using simple, fresh ingredients to create bold, balanced flavors. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need.

Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Breasts are leaner and cook quickly, while thighs offer a slightly richer flavor. Whichever you choose, pound them to an even thickness for consistent cooking.

Lemons: Fresh lemons are key here. You’ll use both the zest and juice, so choose bright, unblemished fruits for the best results. Bottled lemon juice won’t give you the same vibrant flavor.

Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the dish with savory depth. If you’re a garlic lover, don’t be shy – feel free to add an extra clove or two.

Chicken broth: This adds a subtle savory note to the sauce while helping to thin it out. For a richer flavor, use homemade or low-sodium broth.

Butter: A small amount of butter adds a luxurious, silky texture to the sauce. You can substitute olive oil if needed, but butter truly elevates the dish.

Flour: Lightly dusting the chicken with flour before cooking helps create a beautiful golden crust and thickens the sauce as it simmers.

No special equipment is required – just a large skillet, a sharp knife, and a zester for the lemons.

How To Make This Lemon Chicken

Making this Lemon Chicken is easier than you might think. Let’s break it down step by step.

1. Prepare the Chicken: Start by pounding your chicken breasts or thighs to an even thickness. Lightly season them with salt and pepper, then dust with flour, shaking off any excess. This step ensures the chicken cooks evenly and develops a golden crust.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and cover to keep warm.
3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and zest, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the mixture simmer for a couple of minutes.
4. Finish with Butter: Lower the heat and whisk in the butter. This will create a smooth, velvety sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
5. Combine: Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over it. Let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to absorb all that lemony goodness.

Serve your Lemon Chicken hot with your favorite sides, and enjoy a meal that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!

Storage Options

Have leftovers? Lucky you! This Lemon Chicken stores wonderfully for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.

• Refrigerator: Store the chicken and sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Place the chicken in a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent the sauce from drying out.

Variations and Substitutions

This Lemon Chicken is as versatile as it is delicious. Here are a few ways to make it your own:

• Herbaceous Twist: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the sauce for a fragrant, earthy flavor.
• Creamy Sauce: Stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end for a richer, creamier dish.
• Low-Carb Option: Swap the flour for almond flour or omit it altogether for a keto-friendly version.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with cauliflower steaks or tofu, adjusting the cooking time as needed.

Feel free to experiment with different seasonings, sides, and garnishes to suit your tastes. This recipe is your canvas – have fun with it!

Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about the bright, tangy flavor of Lemon Chicken. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish to impress dinner guests, this recipe has you covered.

With its simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and mouthwatering results, you’ll find yourself coming back to this Lemon Chicken time and time again. So grab some lemons and get cooking – your taste buds will thank you!

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