Lemon Garlic Chicken is a classic and versatile dish that is perfect for weeknight dinners or a quick meal when you’re pressed for time. This recipe features juicy chicken breasts cooked to perfection in a fragrant sauce made with fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and olive oil. It’s a dish that’s easy to make but packed with flavor, offering a delightful balance of tanginess from the lemon and the rich aroma of garlic.
Ingredients
- Chicken Breasts: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each). You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer dark meat, which tends to be juicier and more forgiving if slightly overcooked.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons. Olive oil is used for cooking the chicken and also helps in creating a smooth sauce. You can substitute with butter for a richer flavor or a mix of both.
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced. Fresh garlic is preferred for its intense flavor, but you can use garlic powder if that’s what you have on hand (about 1 teaspoon).
- Lemon Juice: Juice of 1 lemon (about 3 tablespoons). Fresh lemon juice is ideal, as it provides a bright, fresh flavor that bottled juice lacks. Lemon zest can also be added for extra zing.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste. Adjust according to your preference; seasoning the chicken properly is key to bringing out the flavors.
- Parsley: Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional). Parsley adds a touch of color and a fresh, herbaceous note to the dish.
Equipment
- Skillet or Frying Pan: A medium-sized skillet is perfect for cooking the chicken. Non-stick or stainless steel pans both work well; just be sure your pan is large enough to fit the chicken without overcrowding.
- Tongs: For turning the chicken.
- Knife and Cutting Board: For mincing the garlic and preparing the chicken.
- Juicer or Reamer: To extract juice from the lemon.
- Spoon or Spatula: For stirring the sauce.
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
- Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This step is important as it helps the chicken brown better in the pan. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Optionally, you can lightly pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin, which ensures they cook evenly.
Heat the Pan:
- Place a skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Let it heat up for about a minute until it’s shimmering. The oil should be hot enough to sizzle when the chicken hits the pan but not so hot that it smokes.
Cook the Chicken:
- Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the pan. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on the first side without moving them. This allows a golden crust to form.
- Flip the chicken using tongs and cook for another 6-7 minutes on the other side. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), or when the juices run clear if you slice into the thickest part.
Make the Sauce:
- Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the pan and set it aside on a plate. Keep it covered with foil to stay warm.
- In the same pan, add the minced garlic. Stir quickly, cooking for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
- Squeeze the lemon juice into the pan, stirring to deglaze and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These bits are full of flavor and add depth to your sauce. Let the sauce simmer for 1-2 minutes until slightly reduced.
Combine and Serve:
- Return the chicken to the pan, spooning the lemon garlic sauce over the top. Let it warm through for about 1 minute.
- Transfer the chicken to a serving plate, pour the remaining sauce over it, and sprinkle with fresh parsley if using.
- Serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Tips and Tricks
- Avoid Overcooking: To prevent the chicken from drying out, keep an eye on the cooking time and use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
- Pan Choice: A heavy-bottomed skillet like cast iron retains heat well and ensures even cooking. Stainless steel pans also work great for achieving a good sear.
- Garlic and Lemon Proportions: Feel free to adjust the garlic and lemon to your taste. If you’re a garlic lover, add an extra clove. For a more intense lemon flavor, add some grated lemon zest.
- Resting the Chicken: Letting the chicken rest after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier piece of meat.
Variations
- Herb Additions: Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano complement the lemon and garlic nicely. Add them when sautéing the garlic for an extra layer of flavor.
- Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken: For a creamy version, add 1/4 cup of heavy cream to the sauce after adding the lemon juice. Simmer until thickened, and serve over pasta or rice.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic for a little heat.
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Add sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach when cooking the garlic to make this dish a one-pan meal.
Serving Suggestions
- Sides: Serve the Lemon Garlic Chicken with a side of roasted vegetables, steamed asparagus, or a simple green salad. It also pairs well with rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes.
- Carb Options: For a low-carb meal, serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
- Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the citrusy notes of the dish beautifully.
Storing and Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to keep the chicken moist. Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the chicken.
Lemon Garlic Chicken is a quick, easy, and delicious recipe that delivers big flavors with minimal effort. Its simplicity makes it a great choice for beginner cooks, while its versatility allows for endless variations to suit your taste. Whether you’re looking for a speedy weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dish for guests, this Lemon Garlic Chicken will not disappoint. Enjoy it with your favorite sides, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular on your meal rotation!