Description
This Lemon Chicken Recipe features tender boneless chicken breasts cooked to golden perfection, then simmered in a bright and zesty lemon garlic sauce. It’s a refreshing, flavorful dish ideal for a quick, healthy weeknight dinner or casual family meal that combines simplicity with vibrant citrus notes.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon honey or sugar (optional)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season and Dredge Chicken: Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts evenly with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Lightly coat each breast in the all-purpose flour to create a delicate crust that will help seal in moisture during cooking.
- Heat Oil and Cook Chicken: Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 5–6 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust and are cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant but not browned, releasing its aroma.
- Deglaze and Prepare Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits, which add deep flavor. This creates a bright, lemony sauce base.
- Simmer Sauce: Stir in the butter and honey (if using) until the butter melts and the sauce slightly thickens. Simmer this mixture for 3–5 minutes allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to reduce to a luscious consistency.
- Reheat Chicken in Sauce: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon the sauce over the top and simmer together for another 2–3 minutes to warm the chicken through and coat it with the flavorful sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the chicken for a burst of color and fresh herbaceous notes. Serve the lemon chicken warm alongside your choice of sides such as rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables.
Notes
- For a richer flavor and juicier texture, you can substitute chicken thighs instead of breasts.
- Add capers to the lemon sauce for a Mediterranean-inspired twist and an extra burst of tangy flavor.
- Serve this dish with complementary sides like steamed rice, cooked pasta, or a medley of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored safely in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and taste great reheated.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
