Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe

Okay, friends, let’s talk about dinner. What is the recipe for Lemon Garlic Chicken? What’s the kind of dish that makes weeknights feel a little less chaotic and …delicious? Think of it like chicken piccata’s more laid-back cousin – all that bright, lemony goodness, but with a citrus edge. What are some good garlicky punches? Is this a lifesaver on busy weekends?

What is lemon garlic chicken?

Lemon Garlic Chicken is a celebration of simple, fresh flavors. What is essentially Chicken Breasts that are pan-fried to golden perfection, then bathed in a vibrant orange hue. Sauce made with lemon juice, garlic, chicken broth, and a touch of butter for richness. What is that sauce that makes this dish sing? Think of it as sunshine on a plate – bright, zesty, and incredibly satisfying. I love the way the lemon cuts through the richness of the butter, creating a perfect balance that’s subtle yet delicious. Both comforting and invigorating.

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Where do I start? Why do I love lemon garlic chicken? What is a symphony of lemon, garlic, and butter that just explodes in your mouth? What’s the kind of flavor that makes you close your eyes and savor every single bite? Then there’s simplicity. I’m all about easy to make recipes without sacrificing flavor, and this one nails it. Is it possible to have this on the table in under 30 minutes? What I love about this is how versatile it is. Can you serve it over pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or even just enjoy it on its own with a side of bread? What is roasted vegetables What are some of the best ways to start a business? Chicken Breasts are usually easy to find on sale, and the other ingredients are pantry staples. Compare that to some other fancy chicken dishes, and this one comes out on top every time. I think this beats any lemon chicken recipe in those chinese restaurants anyday!

How do I make lemon garlic chicken?

Quick Overview

How do I make Lemon Garlic Chicken? I start by lightly flouring and pan-frying the chicken breasts until they’re golden brown. How do you make lemon Garlic Sauce in the same pan? How do you cook chicken? Is it simpler than you think? The whole process is quick, easy, and the aroma that fills your kitchen is absolutely divine.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:
* 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: About 6-8 ounces each, pounded to an even thickness.
* 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: You can also use gluten-free flour if needed. I’ve tried it with a blend of rice flour and tapioca starch, and it worked great.
* 1 teaspoon salt: I prefer sea salt for its clean flavor.
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground is always best.
* 2 tablespoons Olive Oil: For pan-frying the chicken.
* 2 tablespoons butter: This adds richness to the sauce. I use unsalted so I can control the saltiness of the dish.

What is the recipe for Lemon Garlic Sauce?
* 4 cloves garlic: Minced – don’t skimp on the garlic!
* 1/2 cup chicken broth: Low-sodium is ideal.
* 1/4 cup lemon juice: Freshly squeezed is a must! The bottled stuff just doesn’t compare.
* 2 tablespoons butter: This creates a silky smooth sauce.
* 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley: For garnish and a pop of freshness. You can substitute with dried parsley, but fresh is always better.

What are the steps to

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pound the Chicken Breasts to an even 1/2-inch thickness. This helps them cook evenly. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, and pepper. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. This creates a lovely crust when pan-frying.

Step 2: Pan-Fry the Chicken

Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, add the Chicken Breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce

Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic! Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds tons of flavor! Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly thickened. Stir in the butter until melted and the sauce is smooth and glossy.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the Lemon Garlic sauce over them. Simmer for a minute or two to allow the chicken to absorb the flavors. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Step 5: Serve

Serve your Lemon Garlic Chicken over pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or with a side of roasted vegetables. Enjoy!

What to Serve It With

This Lemon Garlic Chicken is so versatile, you can pair it with just about anything! I’ve listed some of my personal favorites below.

What is a classic dinner? Serve it with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and steamed Green Beans. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that everyone will love.

For a Lighter Option:Pair it with a salad and some quinoa. What is the best way to enjoy chicken?

Over Pasta: Toss cooked pasta with the lemon garlic sauce and top with the chicken. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

With Roasted Vegetables Roast your favorite vegetables, like broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts, and serve them alongside the chicken. The roasted veggies add a nice texture and flavor contrast.

My family actually begs for this with a side of garlic bread. It’s probably not the healthiest option, but hey, sometimes you just gotta indulge!

What are some tips for perfecting lemon garlic chicken?

Over the years, I’ve tweaked this Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe to perfection. Here are a few of my top tips to help you nail it every time:

Pound the Chicken: How do you This is crucial for even cooking. If the chicken breasts are too thick, they’ll cook unevenly and may dry out. Pounding them to an even thickness ensures they cook quickly and stay juicy.

Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Chicken breasts can dry out easily, so it’s important to not overcook them. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C).

How do I use fresh lemon juice? Trust me on this one – the bottled stuff just doesn’t compare. Fresh lemon juice adds a bright, zesty flavor that you can’t replicate with the bottled version.

Don’t burn the garlic: It’s Burnt garlic is bitter and unpleasant. Cook it over low heat for just about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. It should be lightly golden, not brown.

Adjust the Sauce to Your Taste: If you like a tangier sauce, add more lemon juice. If you prefer a richer sauce, add more butter. Feel free to experiment and make it your own!

Add a Splash of White Wine: For an extra layer of flavor, deglaze the pan with a splash of dry white wine after cooking the garlic. Let it reduce slightly before adding the chicken broth and lemon juice.

I once accidentally added a whole lemon instead of a quarter… let’s just say it was a very… lemony dinner. My kids were not impressed!

Storing and Reheating Tips

Here’s how to store and reheat any leftover Lemon Garlic Chicken to keep it tasting its best:

Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the chicken has cooled completely before storing it.

Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken. Wrap each chicken breast individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating: To reheat the chicken, you can use the microwave, oven, or skillet. For the microwave, heat for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. For the oven, place the chicken in a baking dish with a little bit of the sauce and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. For the skillet, heat a little bit of oil or butter in the skillet and cook the chicken over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.

Glaze Timing Advice: I usually store the sauce separately and then add it when reheating. That prevents the chicken from getting soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. I’ve had great success with a blend of rice flour, tapioca starch, and potato starch. Just make sure to check that your chicken broth is also gluten-free.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, you can! Chicken thighs will result in a richer, more flavorful dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs typically take a bit longer to cook than breasts. Aim for an internal temperature of 175°F (80°C) for the most tender thighs.

How can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, simply pan-fry it as directed. You can also make the lemon garlic sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the sauce before adding the chicken.

Can I add other herbs to the sauce?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different herbs to customize the flavor of the sauce. Rosemary, thyme, and oregano all pair well with lemon and garlic. Add a teaspoon of dried herbs or a tablespoon of fresh herbs to the sauce while it’s simmering.

What if I don’t have chicken broth?

You can substitute with vegetable broth or even water in a pinch. However, keep in mind that chicken broth will provide the best flavor. If using water, you may want to add a bouillon cube or some extra seasoning to boost the flavor.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – my go-to Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe. It’s quick, easy, and bursting with flavor. Honestly, this is one of those recipes that I make all the time because it’s such a crowd-pleaser. If you love bright, zesty flavors and simple cooking methods, you’re going to adore this dish. And if you’re a fan of easy chicken dinners, you should also try my Creamy Tuscan Chicken – it’s another family favorite! I truly hope you give this a try, and I can’t wait to hear what you think! Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how yours turns out. Happy cooking!