This Easy Lemon Chicken is a bright and tasty dish that’s perfect for dinner. Juicy chicken pieces are cooked with fresh lemon juice and zest, giving them a lovely, zesty flavor!
I love making this on busy weeknights because it’s quick and easy. Plus, the smell of lemon fills the kitchen—who could resist? 🍋 Just serve it with rice or veggies, and you’re all set!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep this dish lean and quick-cooking. If you prefer, you can use thighs for a juicier result or even swap in tofu for a vegetarian option.
Lemon Juice and Zest: Fresh lemons are best for bright flavor. If you’re out, bottled lemon juice will work, but fresh has that extra zing. Don’t skip the zest; it adds so much aroma!
Olive Oil: This gives the chicken a lovely, rich flavor. You can use any cooking oil you have on hand, like avocado or vegetable oil, or even butter for a different taste.
Dried Oregano: This is optional but adds depth to the flavor. You might use other dried herbs like thyme or Italian seasoning if you prefer something different.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking the chicken just right is key to this recipe. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your skillet to medium-high before adding the chicken. This helps achieve a nice sear.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan; if you’re cooking multiple pieces, do it in batches.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; 165°F (75°C) is the safe temp.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This locks in the juices!
Easy Lemon Chicken Recipe with Fresh Zest
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1-2 lemons)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy lemon chicken recipe takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll need around 10 minutes for prep and about 20 minutes for cooking. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken as it cooks.
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, warm up the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and fully cooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F (75°C) for safe eating. After cooking, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
Now, lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the same skillet. Sauté it for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, until you can smell the flavor. Carefully pour in the chicken broth and fresh lemon juice, using a spoon to scrape up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom of the pan.
4. Add Flavor:
Mix in the lemon zest and optional dried oregano. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 3-5 minutes, which helps it thicken a little.
5. Finish the Dish:
Stir in the butter, letting it melt and blend into the sauce for a rich flavor. Then, return the chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon the sauce over them and let everything cook together for another 2 minutes to warm through.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
For the final touch, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and some extra lemon zest if you wish. Serve the lemon chicken warm, paired with your favorite side dishes like rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw the chicken completely before cooking. You can thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or quickly in cold water. Make sure to pat it dry before seasoning to avoid excess moisture in the skillet.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, you can use vegetable broth for a lighter flavor or even water with a pinch of salt and a splash of lemon juice. This will still keep the dish delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftover lemon chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Simply store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, reheat gently in the skillet over medium heat until warmed through, and then garnish before serving.
