Lemon Chicken : The tangy zing of lemon combined with the savory richness of chicken makes it a crowd-pleaser at any dinner table.
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Chicken Recipe
Lemon chicken is beloved for many reasons:
- Bright, Tangy Flavor: The fresh lemon juice infuses the chicken with a vibrant, zesty flavor.
- Healthy: It’s packed with protein, low in fat, and full of vitamin C from the lemon.
- Easy to Make: This recipe requires only a handful of ingredients, and it’s incredibly simple to prepare.
- Versatile: It pairs beautifully with various sides, from salads to pasta or rice.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Lemon Chicken
To ensure your lemon chicken turns out perfectly every time, follow these tips:
Use Fresh Lemon: Freshly squeezed lemon juice delivers a more vibrant flavor compared to bottled varieties.
Marinate for Extra Flavor: If you have time, marinate the chicken in lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
Don’t Overcook: Overcooked chicken can become dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Deglaze the Pan: After searing the chicken, deglaze the skillet with chicken broth to incorporate those delicious brown bits into your sauce.
Delicious Variations of Lemon Chicken
Lemon chicken is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ways to switch up the recipe:
Creamy Lemon Chicken: Add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk to the sauce for a creamy version that pairs well with pasta.
Grilled Lemon Chicken: Instead of pan-searing, marinate the chicken and throw it on the grill for a smoky, charred flavor.
Lemon Chicken with Capers: Add capers to the sauce for a briny twist that complements the tartness of the lemon.
Baked Lemon Chicken: Place the seared chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes to finish cooking, making the dish a little less hands-on.
How to Serve Lemon Chicken
Lemon chicken pairs beautifully with many side dishes, making it a versatile addition to any meal. Here are some serving ideas:
- With Rice: White rice, brown rice, or even lemon herb quinoa absorbs the sauce perfectly.
- On a Salad: Serve slices of lemon chicken over a bed of fresh greens for a light, healthy meal.
- With Pasta: Toss the lemon sauce with pasta for a simple yet satisfying dish.
- With Roasted Vegetables: Pair it with roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts for a nutrient-packed meal.
How to Store Lemon Chicken
Lemon chicken is excellent for meal prep and can be stored easily:
- Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Lemon chicken also freezes well. Place the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheat: Reheat the chicken on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. You may need to add a little more chicken broth or lemon juice to freshen up the sauce.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs are more forgiving and remain moist even if slightly overcooked. They also have a richer flavor that works wonderfully with the lemon sauce.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Lemon chicken can be made a day in advance and reheated just before serving. The flavors will deepen as it sits.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, swap out the butter for olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative to make this recipe dairy-free.
What type of lemons should I use?
Use regular lemons or Meyer lemons for a slightly sweeter, less acidic flavor. Meyer lemons are a great choice if you want a more subtle lemon flavor.
Lemon Chicken
Lemon Chicken : The tangy zing of lemon combined with the savory richness of chicken makes it a crowd-pleaser at any dinner table.
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Flour (for dredging)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 3 tablespoons butter, divided
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice + zest from 1/2 a lemon
Instructions
- Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create thinner cutlets. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, then dredge them in flour to coat.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken cutlets and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same pan, add the chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, and the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Let the sauce simmer for a couple of minutes.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and cook for a few more minutes until fully cooked and the sauce has thickened. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh parsley if you like
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 326Total Fat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 306mgCarbohydrates: 26gFiber: 1gSugar: 1gProtein: 22g
Chickenrecipes.blog, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Lemon chicken is a fantastic recipe to have in your repertoire. It’s easy to make, bursting with flavor, and versatile enough to adapt to your taste preferences. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or an elegant dish to impress guests, lemon chicken fits the bill. Try it with your favorite side dishes, and don’t forget to experiment with the variations to find your perfect version.
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