Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is incredibly flavorful and easy to make, using everyday ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. The lemon adds brightness, the garlic brings depth, and a touch of butter rounds everything out into a deliciously balanced sauce. It’s a one-pan meal that delivers big taste in under 30 minutes, and it pairs beautifully with everything from roasted vegetables to pasta or rice.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
salt
black pepper
olive oil
garlic (minced)
lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
lemon zest
chicken broth
unsalted butter
fresh parsley (for garnish)
optional: red pepper flakes for heat
Directions
- Season the chicken on both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, lower the heat and add more oil or butter if needed. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth. Stir and let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Stir in butter until melted and the sauce becomes silky.
- Return the chicken to the pan and spoon sauce over the top. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes to let flavors combine.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Creamy Version: Add a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream to the sauce.
- Herbed Twist: Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil for a more aromatic flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a chopped chili for heat.
- Lemon Herb Marinade: Marinate the chicken in lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil for 30 minutes before cooking for even more flavor.
- Grilled Version: Grill the chicken instead of pan-searing for a smoky touch.
- Vegetarian Option: Use the sauce over roasted cauliflower or pan-seared tofu.
- Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium broth and adjust seasoning accordingly.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.
You can also microwave individual portions for 30–60 seconds until heated through.
Freezing is possible, but the lemon sauce may slightly change in texture when thawed.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken?
Yes, just increase the cooking time and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
What type of lemon is best?
Freshly squeezed lemon juice is always preferred for the best flavor.
Can I bake this instead of pan-frying?
Yes, sear the chicken first, then bake with the sauce at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes.
Is lemon garlic chicken healthy?
Yes, it’s a lean protein option with simple, fresh ingredients and minimal added fat.
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder can work in a pinch. Start with ½ teaspoon and adjust to taste.
What should I serve with lemon garlic chicken?
Rice, mashed potatoes, pasta, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad are all great options.
Can I double the sauce?
Absolutely. Doubling the sauce is perfect if you’re serving it with pasta or want extra for drizzling.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as the chicken broth and seasonings you use are gluten-free.
Can I add vegetables to the pan?
Yes, thinly sliced zucchini, spinach, or asparagus work well and cook quickly in the same skillet.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C).
Conclusion
Lemon Garlic Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that delivers restaurant-quality taste in just minutes. The tender, golden chicken and tangy lemon-garlic sauce make it a go-to recipe for any night of the week. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
PrintLemon Garlic Chicken
Lemon Garlic Chicken is a zesty, savory one-pan dish featuring juicy chicken in a fresh lemon-butter garlic sauce. Quick to make and full of flavor, it’s ideal for weeknight dinners or entertaining.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Seared
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Season the chicken on both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add more oil or a bit of butter if needed. Sauté the garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth. Stir and let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Stir in butter until melted and the sauce is silky and combined.
- Return chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over the top. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes to let the flavors combine.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Add a splash of cream for a creamy variation.
- Include fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for extra aroma.
- Use red pepper flakes or chili for a spicy twist.
- Double the sauce if serving with pasta or rice.
- This dish is naturally gluten-free—just check the broth label.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
