Lemon Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lemon Chicken is a bright, flavorful dish featuring tender chicken infused with fresh lemon juice, garlic, and herbs. Its zesty, tangy sauce complements the savory chicken perfectly, making it an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between comfort and freshness.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

boneless skinless chicken breast (or thighs)fresh lemon juicelemon zestolive oilgarlic (minced)chicken brothhoney (optional for sweetness)dried oregano or thymecornstarch (for thickening)saltblack pepperfresh parsley (for garnish)

directions

Season chicken on both sides with salt, pepper, and dried herbs.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.

Add chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.

Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping the bottom to deglaze.

Stir in lemon zest and honey (if using). Bring to a simmer.

Mix cornstarch with a bit of water to make a slurry, then add to the skillet to thicken the sauce.

Return chicken to the pan and spoon sauce over the top. Simmer for 2-3 more minutes.

Garnish with chopped parsley and extra lemon slices if desired.

Servings and timing

Serves 4Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 20 minutesTotal time: 30 minutes

Variations

Swap chicken breast for thighs for extra juiciness.

Add capers or olives for a Mediterranean twist.

Use fresh rosemary instead of oregano for a more aromatic flavor.

Serve over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes to soak up the sauce.

Add sautéed spinach or asparagus for a complete meal.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
You can freeze lemon chicken for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the chicken and sauce ahead, then reheat gently when ready to serve.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can work in a pinch.

Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, as long as the chicken broth and cornstarch are gluten-free.

Can I bake the chicken instead?
Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes and pour the sauce over before serving.

Can I use butter instead of olive oil?
Yes, butter will add richness to the dish, but watch the heat to avoid burning.

How do I keep chicken from drying out?
Don’t overcook—use a thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) and remove promptly.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes, bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach pair well with the lemony sauce.

Is this suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely, it keeps well and can be portioned with grains and veggies for the week.

Can I double the sauce?
Yes, it’s great for drizzling over side dishes or saving for another meal.

Can I make it spicy?
Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the lemon sauce for a kick.

Conclusion

Lemon Chicken is a quick, flavorful dish that brings a refreshing citrus twist to your dinner table. With minimal ingredients and maximum taste, it’s a go-to meal that’s sure to impress. Whether served with veggies or grains, it’s a vibrant classic you’ll want to make again and again.

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