Name: Lemon Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 large boneless (skinless chicken breasts); 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for balance); 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/4 cup chicken broth; 1 tablespoon butter (for extra richness); Fresh parsley and lemon slices for garnish

Lemon Chicken is a bright and flavorful dish with a perfect balance of tangy citrus and savory seasonings. This easy recipe features juicy chicken breasts marinated in a lemon-garlic sauce, then pan-seared or baked to perfection. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight meal that pairs well with rice, vegetables, or pasta.

Ingredients

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon honey (optional, for balance)
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon butter (for extra richness)
Fresh parsley and lemon slices for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, Dijon mustard, olive oil, honey, oregano, salt, pepper, and paprika. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.

For another delicious citrus-infused dish, try Honey Pepper Pimento Chicken.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Pan-Seared Method: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil, then place the marinated chicken in the skillet. Cook for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove from the pan and let rest.
Baked Method: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated chicken in a baking dish and bake for 20–25 minutes until fully cooked.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Sauce

In the same skillet, add chicken broth and butter, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Let it simmer for 2 minutes, then pour over the cooked chicken for extra moisture and flavor.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Slice the chicken and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices. Serve hot with rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

For a perfect side, pair this dish with Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli.

Tips for the Best Lemon Chicken

Use fresh lemon juice – It makes a huge difference in flavor.
Don’t overcook – Use a meat thermometer to ensure juicy chicken.
Balance the acidity – A touch of honey helps mellow out the tartness.
Marinate longer – If time allows, marinate for at least an hour for deeper flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lemon Chicken is light, fresh, and packed with flavor. It’s an easy, healthy meal that pairs well with various side dishes. Plus, it’s a great option for meal prep!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 280
Protein: 36g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g

Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Make Ahead: Marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance for extra flavor.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave for 1–2 minutes.
Freezing: Freeze marinated raw chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Lemon Chicken with fluffy rice, garlic butter pasta, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion

This Lemon Chicken recipe is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. With its tangy, savory sauce and juicy chicken, it’s sure to be a favorite in your kitchen. Try it today and enjoy a refreshing, delicious meal!