Lemon Chicken

There’s something truly special about preparing a dish that brings both warmth and comfort to the table, and that’s exactly what Lemon Chicken does for me. I still remember the first time I made this dish for my family. The aroma of sizzling chicken and zesty lemon wafting through the kitchen created an inviting atmosphere that made everyone eager for dinner. As we gathered around the table, I shared stories about the ingredients I chose and the techniques I used. It wasn’t just about the meal—it was about the love and effort that went into every step of making Lemon Chicken. Every bite was a reminder of how simple ingredients can come together to create a delightful experience. I love how versatile this dish is; it can be enjoyed on a cozy weeknight or dressed up for a special occasion. Each time I prepare it, I’m reminded of the joy it brings to those I love and how food connects us.

Essential Ingredients for Lemon Chicken

When it comes to preparing Lemon Chicken, the ingredients you choose are crucial. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that perfect balance of flavors and textures. Fresh ingredients like chicken and lemons are essential for a bright and zesty dish. Let’s dive into what you’ll need to create this culinary delight.

• 1 1/2 lb chicken breast, (2 large), patted dry with paper towels
• 1 Tbsp olive oil, to sauté
• 1 Tbsp parsley, to garnish (optional)
• 1/2 lemon, sliced for garnish (optional)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 3 Tbsp all-purpose flour
• 8 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper

Preparation Steps for Lemon Chicken

Preparing Lemon Chicken is a delightful experience that brings the kitchen to life with flavor and aroma. With a few simple steps, you’ll have this dish ready to impress. Let’s get started on making this delicious meal.

1. Begin by cutting the chicken breasts in half lengthwise. This helps to ensure even cooking. Lightly beat with a meat mallet until even in thickness, which will allow the chicken to cook evenly and remain juicy.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the ingredients for the egg mixture. This will add moisture to the chicken and help the other coatings to stick. In another bowl, combine the ingredients for the Parmesan cheese mixture, which will give the chicken its crispy and flavorful crust.
3. Take the prepared chicken, dip it into the egg mixture, and then dredge it in the Parmesan mixture. Ensure that each piece is well-coated, allowing any excess ingredients to fall off from each bowl for a cleaner cook.
4. In a large non-stick skillet, heat enough olive oil to cover the bottom of the skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the coated chicken and cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side. You want the chicken to turn crispy, golden, and cooked through. Use an Instant Read Thermometer to check for doneness; it should reach 165˚F.
5. If the chicken is browning too quickly, reduce the heat to prevent burning. This step is crucial in achieving the perfect crisp without compromising the inside.
6. Meanwhile, in a separate saucepan, melt butter and add the minced garlic.
7. Cook until fragrant, which typically takes about a minute. Then, add the chicken broth, lemon juice, and pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 2 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
8. Once the chicken is finished cooking, pour the lemon garlic sauce over the cooked chicken, turning each piece to coat thoroughly. This step ensures that every bite is infused with that zesty flavor.
9. For a beautiful presentation, garnish with lemon slices and finely chopped parsley if desired. This not only adds color but also enhances the freshness of the dish.
10. Serve your Lemon Chicken warm and enjoy every flavorful bite with your family and friends!

Change It Up

While Lemon Chicken is fantastic as is, there are many ways to customize it to suit your taste. Here are some tips to make it your own:

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Parmesan mixture for a little heat.
• Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary to give your chicken a unique flavor.
• Vegetable Add-Ins: Consider adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to the skillet for a complete meal.
• Grain Base: Serve over a bed of fluffy quinoa or rice for a filling and nutritious meal.
• Different Proteins: Try using fish or tofu instead of chicken for a healthier alternative.
• Cooking Method: Grill the chicken for a smoky flavor, or bake it for a healthier option.
• Make it a Salad: Chop the cooked Lemon Chicken and toss it into a fresh salad for a light lunch.

What to Serve With Lemon Chicken

Serving Lemon Chicken offers a variety of delicious options that can enhance the meal. Here are some great pairings:

• Rice: A simple side of steamed rice complements the zesty flavors beautifully.
• Salad: A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the dish’s richness.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables make for a nutritious and colorful addition.
• Pasta: Serve with a side of al dente pasta tossed in olive oil and herbs for a filling meal.
• Occasions: Lemon Chicken is perfect for family dinners, weekend gatherings, or even as a meal prep option for busy weeks ahead.
• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Seasonal Pairings: In spring, a side of asparagus or peas can be delightful, while roasted root vegetables are great in the fall.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Lemon Chicken is not just another chicken dish; it’s a celebration of flavor and comfort. Its bright lemony taste combined with the crispy texture makes it truly special. I encourage you to try this recipe and share it with your loved ones. It’s bound to bring smiles and satisfaction to your dinner table.

Lemon Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Lemon Chicken is a zesty delight that can brighten any dinner table. With crispy chicken and a bright lemon sauce, it's perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion. Prepare to impress your family tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 18 minutes mins

Cook Time 12 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• Skillet
• Whisk
• Frying Pan
• Mixing Bowl
• Grater
• Chef's Knife

Ingredients

  

• 1 1/2 lb chicken breast (2 large), patted dry with paper towels
• 1 Tbsp olive oil to sauté
• 1 Tbsp parsley to garnish (optional)
• 1/2 lemon sliced for garnish (optional)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 garlic clove minced
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese grated
• 3 Tbsp all-purpose flour
• 8 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 garlic cloves minced
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper

Instructions

 

• Cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise. Lightly beat with a meat mallet until even in thickness.
• In a bowl, whisk together the ingredients for the egg mixture. In another bowl, combine the ingredients for the Parmesan mixture. Dip chicken into the egg mixture, then dredge chicken in the Parmesan mixture. Allow any excess ingredients to fall off from each bowl.
• In a large non-stick skillet, heat enough olive oil to cover the bottom of a skillet. Once hot, add the chicken and cook 4 to 5 minutes per side, or until crispy, golden, and cooked through to 165˚F on an Instant Read Thermometer. Reduce the heat if chicken browns too quickly.
• Meanwhile, in a separate saucepan, melt butter and garlic, cooking until fragrant. Add the chicken broth, lemon juice, and pepper. Allow the sauce to cook for about 2 minutes.
• Pour the sauce over the cooked chicken, turning to coat. Garnish with lemon slices and finely chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

• Storage: Leftover Lemon Chicken keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: While not recommended, you can freeze leftovers; just make sure to store them in an airtight container.
• Pairing: Serve it with steamed rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Variations: Try adding different herbs or spices to customize the flavor.

Keyword Crispy Lemon Chicken, Easy Lemon Chicken, Lemon Chicken Recipe, Zesty Chicken Dinner

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Meet Olivia Bennett

For me, cooking is about connection. Whether I’m making a quick breakfast or a three course dinner, I focus on the feeling the food gives you. I love the entire process of food blogging, from chopping the first onion to adjusting the lighting for the final photo. I’m the one who reminds the team to slow down and really taste the food as we go, ensuring every recipe has that “home-cooked” warmth.