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Lemon Garlic Chicken

Lemon Garlic Chicken

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Lemon Garlic Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with a zesty sauce made from fresh lemons and garlic. It's perfect for busy weeknights and can be served with a variety of sides.

Ingredients

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4 (6-8 oz each) Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1 tbsp Olive oil
½ tsp Salt
¼ tsp Black pepper
4 cloves Garlic, minced (about 1 tbsp)
½ cup Chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
¼ cup Fresh lemon juice (from 1-2 lemons)
2 tbsp Unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1 tbsp Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
2 tsp Cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
1 tbsp Water (optional, for cornstarch slurry)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat your chicken breasts or thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or oven-safe pan over medium-high heat. Place the seasoned chicken into the hot pan. Sear for 4-6 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside
  3. Sauté the Garlic: Reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic to the same pan, stirring for about 30-60 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic
  4. Deglaze the Pan: Pour in chicken broth and fresh lemon juice. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer
  5. Return and Finish Cooking: Place the seared chicken back into the skillet and cover. Cook gently for another 8-12 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C)
  6. Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If preferred, whisk together cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Gradually whisk this into the sauce and simmer until thickened
  7. Enrich the Sauce: Stir in cold, cubed unsalted butter, swirling until melted and emulsified into the sauce
  8. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the chicken to serving plates. Spoon the sauce over each piece and garnish with chopped parsley

Notes

Pat your chicken dry before seasoning for a better sear.

Don't overcrowd the pan while searing the chicken.