Introduction
Lemon Garlic Chicken Breasts is a flavorful and healthy dish that combines the zesty brightness of fresh lemon juice with the savory depth of garlic. The chicken breasts are marinated and cooked to perfection, resulting in juicy, tender meat coated in a light, tangy, and aromatic sauce. This recipe is simple enough for a quick weeknight dinner yet elegant enough to serve at special gatherings. It’s one of those versatile recipes that can be paired with almost any side dish—rice, pasta, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s the perfect balance of simplicity, healthiness, and flavor. The brightness of lemon cuts through the richness of the chicken, while garlic adds a comforting depth that makes every bite satisfying. What makes it extra special is how effortlessly it comes together—you only need a handful of everyday ingredients, yet the result tastes like something from a fine dining restaurant.
Another reason I adore this recipe is its versatility. It pairs beautifully with so many sides—fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or even a light salad—so I can adapt it based on my mood or the occasion. Plus, it’s a healthier option compared to creamy or fried chicken dishes, but without sacrificing flavor.
Why This is a Must-Try Dish
- Quick & Easy: Ready in less than 30 minutes.
- Healthy: Lean protein with a light, fresh sauce.
- Versatile: Pairs well with pasta, rice, quinoa, or veggies.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Simple ingredients that everyone loves.
- Restaurant Quality: Elegant enough for guests but easy enough for weeknights.
Time, Servings, and Nutrition
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories (approx.): 320 kcal per serving
Cuisine & Course
- Cuisine: Mediterranean / American
- Course: Main dish
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tbsp olive oil (divided)
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- Juice of 2 lemons (about 4 tbsp)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- ½ cup chicken broth (or white wine for extra flavor)
- 1 tsp dried oregano (or Italian seasoning)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Simple Cooking Directions
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, and oregano.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear chicken until golden on both sides.
- Add garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth.
- Simmer until chicken is cooked through and sauce slightly thickens.
- Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation
How to Serve This Recipe
- Serve with steamed rice, roasted potatoes, or pasta.
- Pair with a green salad or sautéed vegetables for a light, balanced meal.
- For a Mediterranean touch, serve with couscous or quinoa.
Additional Recipe Tips
- Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness for faster, more even cooking.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Deglaze the pan with white wine for extra depth of flavor.
- Don’t overcook the chicken—use a thermometer to check doneness.
Variations
- Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken: Add ½ cup heavy cream at the end for a rich sauce.
- Spicy Version: Add red chili flakes while cooking garlic.
- Herb Variation: Use thyme, rosemary, or basil instead of oregano.
- Grilled Version: Marinate chicken in lemon-garlic mix and grill instead of pan-frying.
Freezing & Storage
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth.
- Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken with sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Special Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Meat thermometer (for accuracy)
- Tongs or spatula
Conclusion
Lemon Garlic Chicken Breasts is a dish that perfectly balances zesty freshness with savory goodness. It’s quick, healthy, and bursting with flavor, making it an ideal weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests. Once you try it, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen—it’s proof that simple ingredients can create extraordinary meals.
Lemon Garlic Chicken Breasts
Description
Lemon Garlic Chicken Breasts is a flavorful and healthy dish that combines the zesty brightness of fresh lemon juice with the savory depth of garlic.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Prepare Chicken : Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and oregano.
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Heat Pan : In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat.
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Cook Chicken : Add chicken breasts and sear for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
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Make Sauce : In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp olive oil. Sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Add Liquids : Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth. Scrape up any browned bits from the pan.
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Simmer Chicken : Return chicken to the skillet. Cover and cook for 7–10 minutes, until chicken is fully cooked (internal temp 165°F / 74°C).
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Finish & Serve : Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with your favorite sides.
