Fresh, flavorful, and fast—this Lemon Chicken recipe is a go-to weeknight dinner that delivers big taste with minimal effort. Juicy chicken breasts are seared to golden perfection and then simmered in a bright, tangy lemon garlic sauce. With just a few simple ingredients and 20 minutes from start to finish, it’s a satisfying dish the whole family will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Lemon Chicken is all about vibrant, zesty flavor balanced by buttery richness. The lemon-garlic sauce is light yet bold, coating the chicken in a mouthwatering glaze that’s perfect for spooning over rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables. It’s easy enough for a quick dinner and elegant enough for entertaining. With wholesome ingredients and a one-pan method, cleanup is just as simple as the prep.
Ingredients
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1/2 cup chicken broth
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1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
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2 tablespoons butter
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
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Salt and pepper to taste
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Sear the chicken in the hot skillet for 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden and fully cooked. Remove from skillet and set aside.
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In the same skillet, melt butter and add the minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
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Stir in the chicken broth and fresh lemon juice. Bring to a simmer.
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Return the chicken to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and coat the chicken.
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Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 4 servings
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Prep time: 5 minutes
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Cooking time: 15 minutes
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Total time: 20 minutes
Variations
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Herbed Lemon Chicken: Add thyme, oregano, or rosemary to the sauce for extra depth.
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Creamy Lemon Sauce: Stir in a splash of heavy cream after adding the lemon juice for a creamier texture.
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Lemon Chicken Thighs: Substitute chicken thighs for extra juicy and flavorful results—adjust cooking time as needed.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if needed to keep the chicken moist.
FAQs
1. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Yes, but fresh lemon juice offers a brighter, more natural flavor. Use fresh if possible.
2. Can I make this recipe with chicken thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a flavorful alternative. Cook slightly longer until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
3. What can I serve with lemon chicken?
It pairs well with rice, quinoa, pasta, or a fresh green salad. Roasted vegetables are also a great choice.
4. Can I add vegetables to the skillet?
Yes, try adding spinach, asparagus, or green beans during the last few minutes of cooking.
5. How do I make the sauce thicker?
Simmer the sauce a bit longer, or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water) and stir until thickened.
6. Can I meal prep this dish?
Yes, cook the chicken and sauce in advance and store in the fridge. Reheat before serving.
7. How do I keep the chicken juicy?
Avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F (74°C).
8. Can I grill the chicken instead?
Yes, grill the chicken and then simmer it briefly in the lemon sauce for flavor.
9. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as written, it’s naturally gluten-free. Just double-check all ingredient labels to be sure.
10. Can I freeze lemon chicken?
Yes, freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat to serve.
Conclusion
This Lemon Chicken recipe is a bright, savory dish that’s full of flavor and perfect for busy weeknights. With its quick prep and irresistible lemon-garlic sauce, it’s a wholesome dinner that’s as simple as it is delicious. Whether you pair it with rice, pasta, or veggies, this zesty chicken is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation!
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Lemon Chicken
This Lemon Chicken recipe is a fresh and flavorful weeknight dinner that’s ready in just 20 minutes. With tender, seared chicken breasts in a tangy lemon-garlic sauce, it’s the perfect balance of bright citrus and rich butter. Quick to prepare and versatile, this dish pairs well with rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables, making it a go-to meal for busy evenings or special occasions.
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Sear the chicken in the hot skillet for 6-7 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. Remove from skillet and set aside.
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In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
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Stir in chicken broth and fresh lemon juice, bringing to a simmer.
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Return the chicken to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and coat the chicken.
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Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Notes
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Variations: Add fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary for extra depth. For a creamy twist, stir in heavy cream after adding lemon juice.
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Chicken Thighs: Use thighs for extra juiciness. Cook until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
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Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to maintain moisture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
