Description
Lemon Chicken is a bright and flavorful skillet dish featuring tender pan-seared chicken breasts coated in a buttery garlic lemon sauce with fresh herbs. This quick and easy meal is perfect for weeknight dinners and pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for a thicker sauce)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon slices, for garnish
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter in the same skillet.
- Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, and Dijon mustard, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
- Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
- If a thicker sauce is desired, stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the top.
- Cover and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices.
- Serve immediately with rice, mashed potatoes, pasta, or steamed vegetables.
Notes
- Fresh lemon juice and zest provide the brightest flavor.
- Chicken thighs can be substituted for a juicier alternative.
- Add capers or spinach for extra flavor and texture.
- Avoid overcooking the chicken to keep it tender.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American