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Lemon Chicken

Lemon Chicken
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Master the art of Lemon Chicken with this easy and foolproof recipe. Juicy, tender chicken breasts or thighs are seared to perfection, then simmered in a bright, zesty lemon sauce enriched with garlic, butter, and fresh herbs. This classic dish balances tangy and savory flavors, making it a delicious, versatile meal perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

Lemon Sauce

  • 2 fresh lemons (juice and zest)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (parsley or thyme), finely chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat chicken pieces dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper to ensure a flavorful crust and juicy results.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a skillet. Add chicken and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side, locking in juices and building the foundation for the sauce.
  3. Make the Lemon Sauce: Remove chicken and set aside. Lower heat to medium and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth, scraping browned bits from the pan. Let sauce simmer and reduce slightly.
  4. Finish Cooking in Sauce: Return chicken to the pan, spoon sauce over each piece, cover and simmer gently until cooked through and tender, about 8-10 minutes depending on thickness.
  5. Add Butter and Herbs: Turn off heat and stir in cold butter cubes and chopped fresh herbs, swirling until sauce is silky and glossy, enriching the flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Chicken thickness matters: Pound chicken to even thickness for uniform cooking and juiciness.
  • Don’t skip searing: A golden crust locks in moisture and flavor.
  • Fresh lemons: Use freshly squeezed juice and zest over bottled lemon juice for best flavor.
  • Simmer gently: Cook covered on low heat to keep chicken tender and prevent drying out.
  • Rest before serving: Let chicken rest a few minutes before slicing to retain juices.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon chicken, easy chicken recipe, quick chicken dinner, gluten free chicken, lemon sauce chicken

Find it online: https://mealsbylina.com/lemon-chicken/