Description
A quick and easy lemon chicken recipe with a zesty, savory sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is ready in just 30 minutes!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts or thighs
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free option)
- 1 teaspoon honey or sugar (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt and black pepper.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add butter and a bit more olive oil. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
4. Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits. Add lemon juice, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes if using.
5. Thicken the Sauce: Stir in a small amount of flour or cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce slightly. Add honey or sugar for a touch of sweetness if desired.
6. Simmer the Chicken: Return the chicken to the pan, spooning the sauce over it. Simmer for another 5-7 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
7. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot with your favorite side dish.
Notes
- Creamy Lemon Chicken: Stir in a splash of heavy cream for a richer texture.
- Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
- Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh thyme or rosemary for added depth of flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use cornstarch instead of flour.
- Crispier Texture: Dredge the chicken in a light coating of flour before searing for a crispy crust.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: pan frying, simmering
- Cuisine: american,Mediterranean
Keywords: lemon chicken, easy dinner, quick chicken recipe, one-pan meal, healthy chicken dish