Introduction
Lemon Chicken is a delightful and zesty dish that is perfect for any weeknight dinner. This quick and easy recipe combines tender chicken breasts with a bright lemon sauce, making it a refreshing meal that pairs wonderfully with rice or vegetables. In just 30 minutes, you can have a flavorful dish that will impress your family and friends.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup chicken broth
Fresh parsley for garnish
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Enjoy making this simple yet delicious Lemon Chicken recipe that will surely become a family favorite!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil
In a skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Take 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts and generously season them with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear each side for 4-5 minutes until they are golden brown. After searing, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Sauté Garlic
In the same skillet used for the chicken, add 4 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 5: Prepare the Sauce
Pour in 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice and add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest, 1/4 cup chicken broth, and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano. Stir the ingredients well to combine.
Step 6: Return Chicken to Skillet
Place the seared chicken back into the skillet. Spoon the sauce over the top of the chicken and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
After cooking, garnish the lemon chicken with fresh parsley. Serve warm with the sauce drizzled over the top.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a side of vegetables for a complete meal.
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations
Feel free to add other herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, for additional flavor. You can also include capers or olives for an extra touch.
Cook techniques
Pan-Searing
Pan-searing is a technique that involves cooking the chicken breasts in a hot skillet with oil to create a golden-brown crust. This method locks in moisture and enhances flavor.
Sautéing
Sautéing allows you to cook minced garlic in a small amount of oil over medium heat, which helps to release its fragrant oils and intensifies its flavor.
Deglazing
Deglazing involves adding liquid (such as lemon juice and chicken broth) to the skillet after searing to lift the browned bits from the pan. This adds depth to the sauce and improves the overall flavor.
Simmering
Simmering the chicken in the sauce helps it absorb the flavors from the garlic, lemon juice, and herbs while ensuring it cooks through and stays juicy.
Garnishing
Garnishing with fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness to the dish, enhancing its visual appeal and taste.
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier alternative. Just adjust the cooking time as needed since thighs may take a little longer to cook through.
What can I serve with lemon chicken?
Lemon chicken pairs well with rice, pasta, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it separately, then combine it with the chicken when ready to serve.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this lemon chicken recipe is gluten-free as none of the ingredients contain gluten.
Conclusion
This Lemon Chicken recipe is a delightful and refreshing dish that brings a burst of flavor to any meal. The combination of tender chicken breasts cooked in a zesty lemon and garlic sauce makes it a perfect dish for any occasion. It’s quick to prepare, taking just 30 minutes, and can be enjoyed by the whole family. Serve it alongside your favorite sides for a wholesome and satisfying dinner.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Lemon Herb Quinoa
A light and fluffy quinoa dish flavored with lemon and mixed herbs, making it a perfect side for your lemon chicken.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a delicious comfort side that pairs excellently with the tangy lemon flavors.
Steamed Asparagus with Lemon
Bright and fresh asparagus lightly steamed and drizzled with lemon juice adds a crisp, vibrant element to your meal.
Citrus Spinach Salad
A refreshing salad featuring fresh spinach, orange segments, and a citrus vinaigrette enhances the lemony theme of the dish.
Lemon Butter Shrimp
For a seafood twist, try cooking shrimp in a similar lemon garlic sauce for a delightful variation that still captures the essence of lemon.