Turn ordinary chicken into a restaurant-quality dish with this vibrant Lemon Garlic Chicken! Perfectly seared chicken breasts are bathed in a buttery lemon garlic sauce, delivering bright Mediterranean flavors in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or hosting a dinner party, this recipe guarantees juicy, flavorful chicken every time.

Lemon Garlic Chicken

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Calories: 250

Nutrition

Calories: 250kcal

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Why This Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe Will Become Your Go-To

Weekday Warrior: Ready in 30 minutes flat—perfect for busy schedules.
Restaurant Magic: Impress guests with buttery, garlicky, and citrusy flavors.
Versatile Star: Pairs beautifully with pasta, roasted vegetables, rice, or salads.
Meal Prep Hero: Tastes even better as leftovers, perfect for lunches or dinners.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6–8 oz each)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika

For the Legendary Sauce:

3 tbsp butter
5 garlic cloves, minced
¼ cup chicken broth
¼ cup fresh lemon juice (1–2 lemons)
1 tbsp honey (optional)
1 tsp lemon zest
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Optional Garnish:

Lemon slices
Extra parsley
Red pepper flakes

Step-by-Step Instructions 🥄

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pound chicken breasts to an even ½-inch thickness to ensure even cooking.
Pat dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add chicken and cook 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C).
Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce

Reduce heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet.
Sauté garlic for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in chicken broth, lemon juice, honey, and lemon zest. Simmer 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Combine & Serve

Return chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over the top. Cook 1–2 minutes to coat.
Garnish with parsley, lemon slices, and optional red pepper flakes. Serve immediately.

Pro Tips for Success

Even Thickness: Pound chicken evenly to prevent dry edges.
Butter & Oil Combo: Using both ensures rich flavor and prevents burning.
Zesty Boost: Add extra lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving.
Storage: Store cooked chicken and sauce separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to retain juiciness.

FAQs About Lemon Garlic Chicken

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Bone-in or boneless thighs work well. Adjust cooking time slightly for bone-in pieces.

2. Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Absolutely! It’s naturally low in carbs and high in protein and healthy fats.

3. Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes. Substitute butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative.

4. Can I double the recipe for meal prep or parties?
Yes! Use a larger skillet or bake the chicken in the oven and then prepare the sauce separately.

5. What sides pair best with Lemon Garlic Chicken?
Pasta, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, rice, or a crisp green salad complement this dish beautifully.

Conclusion

This Lemon Garlic Chicken recipe is the perfect blend of juicy chicken, zesty lemon, and rich garlic butter sauce. Quick enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive for entertaining, it’s a versatile and foolproof dish that will become a staple in your kitchen. Serve it with your favorite sides, garnish with fresh herbs, and enjoy restaurant-quality flavor at home!