There’s something magical about how just a handful of simple ingredients can transform into a dish that’s bold, bright, and completely irresistible. This Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe is my go-to whenever I want something quick yet delicious, featuring juicy chicken breasts nestled in an aromatic, buttery lemon-garlic sauce. It’s zesty, savory, and guaranteed to bring a touch of Mediterranean sunshine to your table—perfect for busy weeknights, yet elegant enough for a special dinner with loved ones!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe is that you don’t need a long shopping list—just a handful of staple ingredients, each playing its own starring role. Let’s break down what makes every bite so delicious and satisfying.
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless, and pounded to an even thickness for juicy, evenly-cooked results.
- Olive Oil: For that unbeatable richness and to help create a gorgeous golden sear on the chicken.
- Garlic: Four fresh cloves, minced, infuse the sauce with bold, aromatic flavor.
- Lemon (juice and zest): Adds bright acidity and freshness that’s at the heart of this dish.
- Chicken Broth: Lifts up the sauce and brings a savory depth to balance the citrus.
- Butter: Creates a silky, luscious sauce with just the right hint of richness.
- Dried Oregano: Introduces a Mediterranean flair and herbal aroma that pairs perfectly with lemon and garlic.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.
- Lemon Slices and Fresh Parsley (optional): For an extra burst of freshness and a pop of color on your serving platter.
How to Make Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Start by laying out your chicken breasts on a cutting board. For the best, most even cooking, give them a few gentle pounds with a meat mallet until they’re all about the same thickness. This little trick ensures every bite is just as succulent as the next! Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and that earthy dried oregano—don’t be shy, seasoning now pays off in flavor later.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When it’s shimmering, add the chicken breasts—listen for that satisfying sizzle! Let them cook undisturbed for 5–6 minutes on each side, until they’re gloriously golden and just cooked through (an internal temp of 165°F is perfect). Once done, move them to a plate and keep them cozy while you make the sauce.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Turn the heat down to medium and toss your minced garlic right into the same pan. In just about 30 seconds, you’ll smell that incredible garlicky aroma—don’t let it go too long or it might burn, so keep a close eye and get ready for the next step!
Step 4: Build the Lemon Sauce
Pour in the fresh lemon juice and zest, followed by the chicken broth, scraping up all those tasty browned bits from the bottom of the skillet (that’s where the magic happens). Let everything simmer together for 2–3 minutes, which not only melds the flavors beautifully but also starts to reduce the sauce for extra punch.
Step 5: Finish with Butter and Return the Chicken
Add in the knob of butter and gently stir until it’s melted and the sauce turns glossy and rich. Now, bring your chicken back into the skillet, nestle it into the sauce, and spoon that goodness all over the top. Let everything bubble together for another minute or two, so the flavors have a moment to mingle. Serve the Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe warm, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon slices if you like.
How to Serve Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley and a few slices of thin lemon take this Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe from everyday to restaurant-worthy. The touch of green and the burst of citrus make each plate look as fresh and lively as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This vibrant chicken absolutely shines alongside fluffy rice, roasted potatoes, or a crisp green salad. You’ll find the sauce just begs to be mopped up with something—think a hunk of artisan bread or a bed of quinoa. Want to keep things light? Sautéed green beans, asparagus, or even couscous are wonderful choices to round out your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a memorable family-style presentation, slice the chicken and fan it out on a large platter, drizzling plenty of lemon-garlic sauce on top. For a casual dinner, pile everything into one big skillet at the center of the table. Hosting friends? Try serving over creamy polenta or nestle the chicken on a bright spring pea risotto for a cheffy touch!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let the chicken cool completely, then tuck any leftovers into an airtight container. The Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. That zippy lemon sauce only gets better as it mingles with the chicken overnight!
Freezing
Freezing is a breeze, too. Slice the cooled chicken if you like, then store along with the sauce in freezer-safe bags or containers. It’ll keep its flavor and texture for up to 2 months—just great for meal-prep or future you!
Reheating
When you’re ready for round two, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, spooning the sauce over the chicken until warmed through. If using a microwave, cover and heat in short bursts, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to keep things saucy and moist.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Juicy, boneless, skinless thighs work perfectly in the Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe, just watch for a slightly longer cook time, and be sure they reach 165°F for doneness.
How do I make the sauce creamy?
Just stir in a splash of heavy cream with the lemon juice and broth, or finish with a swirl of crème fraîche at the very end. This adds luscious richness without overpowering the bright flavors.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! The Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe is naturally gluten-free as written, making it a flavorful and safe option for those avoiding gluten. Always double-check your chicken broth just to be sure.
Can I grill the chicken instead?
You sure can! Grill the seasoned chicken until done, then whip up the lemon garlic sauce on the stovetop and drizzle it over before serving. It’s a fantastic summertime twist.
What’s the best way to zest a lemon?
A fine microplane or zester works wonders for getting just the yellow zest without the bitter white pith. Zest the lemon before juicing for best results and maximum flavor in your Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe!
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to experience how vibrant and quick this Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe is in your own kitchen. It’s a little bit of sunshine in every bite—easy enough for beginners yet satisfying for every palate. Give it a try, share it with friends, and make it your new weeknight staple!
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Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Lemon Garlic Chicken recipe is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for a quick and delicious dinner. Juicy chicken breasts are seared to golden perfection and topped with a tangy lemon garlic sauce.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- lemon slices and fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Pound and season the chicken: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness and season with salt, pepper, and oregano.
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet, sear the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until cooked through.
- Make the sauce: In the same skillet, sauté garlic, add lemon juice, zest, and broth. Simmer, then stir in butter.
- Combine and simmer: Return chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over the top, and simmer for another 1-2 minutes.
- Serve: Garnish with lemon slices and parsley before serving warm.
Notes
- This dish pairs well with rice, roasted vegetables, or a light salad.
- For extra richness, add a splash of heavy cream with the lemon juice.
- You can also grill the chicken and drizzle the lemon garlic sauce over the top.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
