This Lemon Garlic Chicken is juicy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Infused with fresh lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal-prep favorite. Whether you bake, grill, or pan-sear it, this tender, zesty chicken pairs well with rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables for a healthy, delicious meal! 🍋🧄✨
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For the Chicken:
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into cutlets (or 4 small chicken breasts)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp dried oregano (or Italian seasoning)
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For Garnish:
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges
Directions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, oregano, and red pepper flakes.
- Add the chicken breasts and toss to coat. Let marinate for at least 20 minutes (or up to 8 hours in the fridge).
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Option 1: Pan-Seared Lemon Garlic Chicken
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Option 2: Baked Lemon Garlic Chicken
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place marinated chicken in a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until fully cooked.
Option 3: Grilled Lemon Garlic Chicken
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, until fully cooked.
Step 3: Serve and Enjoy!
- Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.
- Serve with rice, roasted potatoes, or a fresh salad!
Notes
- For extra flavor: Add 1 tbsp butter to the pan during the last minute of cooking.
- Make it creamy: Stir in 2 tbsp heavy cream to the pan after cooking the chicken for a creamy lemon garlic sauce.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Why This recipe Works
The lemon and garlic bring out the bright, fresh flavors, while olive oil keeps the chicken juicy. The quick marination ensures the chicken stays moist and tender, making this a go-to recipe for any night of the week!
Conclusion
This Lemon Garlic Chicken is a simple, healthy, and flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare and pairs well with almost anything. Whether pan-seared, baked, or grilled, this dish is sure to impress. Try it today and enjoy a zesty, garlicky bite in every mouthful! 🍋🍗✨
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this Lemon Garlic Chicken ahead of time, and how should I store it?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken up to 8 hours in the refrigerator before cooking, which actually allows the flavors to meld even more. Cooked chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For optimal results, allow the chicken to cool completely before refrigerating. Reheat gently in a pan, oven, or microwave until heated through.
What substitutions can I make for the ingredients in this Lemon Garlic Chicken recipe?
You can substitute dried herbs (oregano or Italian seasoning) for fresh, using a ratio of 1 teaspoon dried herb for every 1 tablespoon fresh. If you don’t have olive oil, you can use avocado oil or another neutral-flavored oil. For the lemon juice, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch, but fresh lemon juice is highly recommended for the best flavor. If you’re out of chicken breasts, chicken thighs can be used, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
How do I know when the Lemon Garlic Chicken is perfectly cooked, regardless of the cooking method?
Regardless of whether you pan-sear, bake, or grill the chicken, the internal temperature is the most reliable indicator of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the chicken. Visually, the chicken should be golden brown and no longer pink inside. It should also be firm to the touch, and the juices should run clear when pierced with a fork.
Can I double or triple this Lemon Garlic Chicken recipe to feed a larger group?
Yes, you can easily scale this recipe up. When doubling the recipe, use a larger skillet or baking dish and increase the cooking time slightly, checking the internal temperature to ensure the chicken is cooked through. For grilling, you may need to cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the grill. Triple the recipe and consider using two baking dishes or a larger grill surface, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
What are the nutritional benefits of this Lemon Garlic Chicken recipe?
This Lemon Garlic Chicken is a good source of lean protein from the chicken breasts, essential for muscle building and repair. Garlic provides antioxidants and potential immune-boosting properties. Lemon juice offers Vitamin C, supporting the immune system and acting as an antioxidant. Olive oil provides healthy fats. This dish is also relatively low in carbohydrates, making it a balanced and healthy meal option.
Lemon Garlic Chicken
This delightful Lemon Garlic Chicken is both flavorful and easy to prepare. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Prep
: 10
Total
: 25 minutes
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces chicken breasts boneless and skinless
- 1.5 teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 large lemon juiced and zested
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 10 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Squeeze lemon juice over the chicken and sprinkle with lemon zest before serving.
Notes
For best results, use freshly squeezed lemon juice.
