Description
This Lemon Chicken recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts cooked to perfection in a buttery lemon garlic sauce infused with fresh herbs. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s an easy and flavorful main course perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion, delivering bright citrus notes and rich, savory undertones all in one skillet.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon slices, for garnish
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts evenly with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning to prepare for cooking.
- Heat the oil and sear chicken: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil until shimmering. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5 to 6 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the unsalted butter. Once melted, sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
- Add liquids and simmer: Stir in the chicken broth, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, letting the sauce reduce and develop flavor.
- Finish cooking the chicken: Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them in the sauce. Cook for an additional 5 to 7 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), ensuring it’s cooked through and tender.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and garnish with lemon slices before serving for added freshness and presentation appeal.
Notes
- Chicken thighs can be used as a substitute for chicken breasts for a juicier option.
- Serve this dish alongside rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables to complete the meal.
- Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American