Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is simple yet packed with vibrant flavors that brighten up any meal. The lemon juice tenderizes the chicken while infusing it with fresh citrus notes, and the garlic adds depth and aroma. It’s versatile, easy to make, and pairs well with a variety of sides, from roasted vegetables to rice or salad.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken breasts, boneless and skinless

• Olive oil

• Fresh lemon juice

• Garlic cloves, minced

• Salt and pepper

• Dried or fresh herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley)

• Lemon zest (optional)

Directions

1. In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and herbs to create the marinade.

2. Add the chicken breasts and coat them well with the marinade. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for more flavor.

3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from the marinade (discard marinade) and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.

4. Optional: Add lemon zest during cooking or sprinkle over the chicken before serving for extra brightness.

5. Serve hot with your favorite sides, garnished with fresh herbs or lemon slices.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cook time: 12-14 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes (including minimum marinating time)

Variations

• Add a splash of white wine or chicken broth to the skillet for a light pan sauce.

• Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier option.

• Include a touch of honey or maple syrup in the marinade for a subtle sweetness.

• Add crushed red pepper flakes for a mild spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to avoid drying out. If you have pan sauce leftover, warm it separately and spoon over reheated chicken.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe without marinating?

Yes, but marinating enhances the flavor and tenderness significantly.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Thaw chicken completely before marinating and cooking for even results.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, it contains no gluten ingredients.

What herbs work best with lemon garlic chicken?

Thyme, rosemary, parsley, and oregano all complement this dish well.

Can I bake the chicken instead of cooking it in a skillet?

Yes, bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Don’t overcook and consider marinating to help keep it moist.

Can I use lemon juice concentrate?

Fresh lemon juice is best for flavor, but concentrate can be used in a pinch.

What sides go well with lemon garlic chicken?

Rice, roasted vegetables, steamed asparagus, or a fresh salad are great options.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just increase marinade and cooking times slightly as needed.

Can this recipe be made dairy-free?

Yes, it contains no dairy ingredients.

Conclusion

Lemon Garlic Chicken is a fresh, easy-to-make dish that delivers a perfect combination of tangy citrus and savory garlic. Its quick preparation and vibrant flavors make it a go-to for busy weeknights or casual dinners. Whether served with simple greens or hearty sides, this recipe is sure to brighten your table and satisfy your taste buds.

Lemon Garlic Chicken

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Lemon Garlic Chicken is a bright and flavorful dish featuring juicy chicken breasts marinated and cooked with fresh lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, delivering a perfect balance of tangy citrus and savory garlic.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus marinating time)
• Cook Time: 12-14 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes (including minimum marinating time)
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Marinating, Skillet
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

1. 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
   
   2 tablespoons olive oil
   
   1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
   
   4 cloves garlic, minced
   
   Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
   
   1 teaspoon dried or 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, or parsley)
   
   Optional: 1 teaspoon lemon zest

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Instructions

In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and herbs to create the marinade.

1. Add chicken breasts and coat well with the marinade. Marinate for at least 15 minutes, up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade (discard marinade).
3. Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, until cooked through and golden brown.
4. Optional: Add lemon zest during cooking or sprinkle over chicken before serving.
5. Serve hot with your favorite sides, garnished with fresh herbs or lemon slices.

Notes

1. Add a splash of white wine or chicken broth to the skillet for a light pan sauce.
2. Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier option.
3. Include honey or maple syrup in the marinade for subtle sweetness.
4. Add crushed red pepper flakes for a mild spicy kick.
5. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
6. Reheat gently to avoid drying out.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 95mg