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Lemon Chicken

Lemon Chicken
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Lemon Chicken is a classic dish that perfectly balances zesty brightness with juicy, tender chicken. This simple and versatile recipe uses fresh lemons, garlic, and herbs to create a tangy, refreshing flavor paired with succulent chicken breasts or thighs. Ideal for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this healthy and light meal offers a deliciously easy way to satisfy your hunger with every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

Marinade and Sauce

  • Juice of 2 fresh lemons
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for cooking
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley or thyme, chopped (about 2 tablespoons)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, olive oil, honey, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until well blended to create a tangy and slightly sweet marinade.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts or thighs in a shallow dish or zip-lock bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring every piece is evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator for optimal flavor and tenderness.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Remove the chicken from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking and a beautiful sear.
  4. Make the Lemon Sauce: After cooking the chicken, pour the reserved marinade into the skillet. Add the chicken broth and simmer gently, reducing the sauce until it becomes a glossy, flavorful glaze.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Return the chicken to the skillet and coat it in the thickened lemon sauce. Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley or your choice of herbs, and serve immediately while warm and juicy.

Notes

  • Use room temperature chicken to ensure even cooking.
  • Don’t skip the lemon zest for intense citrus aroma and flavor.
  • Always boil the reserved marinade before using it as a sauce to eliminate any bacteria from raw chicken.
  • Cook chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F for safe and perfect doneness.
  • Let the chicken rest briefly after cooking to lock in juices and maintain tenderness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Lemon Chicken, chicken recipe, citrus chicken, easy chicken dinner, healthy chicken, gluten free chicken

Find it online: https://marygourmet.com/lemon-chicken/