This Lemon Garlic Chicken recipe captures the essence of juicy chicken infused with a zesty lemon and fragrant garlic marinade. After numerous attempts in my kitchen, I discovered the art of balancing flavors and textures to achieve a succulent dish that’s versatile enough for salads, wraps, or rice bowls. Your family will love this, and I encourage you to give it a try alongside my Easy Spicy Chicken Sandwich!
About Lemon Garlic Chicken
Lemon Garlic Chicken is a delightful mix of bright flavors and tenderness that can easily elevate any meal. I often prepare this dish for family gatherings or busy weeknights, since it falls within a budget yet delivers impressive flavor. Testing various marinades, I’ve learned that letting the chicken soak up the flavors enhances its juiciness and aroma remarkably.
- Quick prep, ready in under an hour—ideal for weeknight dinners!
- Versatile—perfect for adding to salads, sandwiches, or serving with sides.
- Family favorite, loved for its fresh and zesty flavor profile.
Key Ingredients & Their Roles
- Chicken breasts: The star of the dish. Opt for organic chicken for a more pronounced flavor.
- Garlic: Adds a savory depth; you can use roasted garlic for sweetness.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Helps to carry flavors; feel free to substitute with avocado oil.
- Italian seasoning: A blend that brings warmth; you can swap it with fresh herbs for added freshness.
How to Make Lemon Garlic Chicken
- Zest and juice one lemon into a large bowl, then whisk in olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and parsley until combined.
- Carefully slice the chicken breasts horizontally to create cutlets, making sure they are even for even cooking.
- Pat the chicken dry, season with kosher salt and black pepper, and submerge in the marinade for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium heat, add marinated chicken pieces, and sear for about 4 minutes on each side until golden.
- Check the internal temperature; once it reads 160°F, let the chicken rest covered for 5 minutes to lock in juices.
- Garnish with sliced lemon and chopped parsley before serving.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
- Marinating the chicken for up to two hours enriches the flavors; don’t skip this step!
- A common mistake is overcrowding the skillet, which prevents searing; work in batches if necessary.
- For seasonal variations, consider adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic twist.
- Feel free to double the marinade for more chicken; this recipe scales beautifully.
Storage & Make-Ahead Guide
Store any leftover Lemon Garlic Chicken in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, use a microwave or skillet on low heat for about 5 minutes, ensuring it’s heated through. I noticed that marinated leftovers taste even better the next day, making them a tasty meal prep option!
What to Serve With Lemon Garlic Chicken
This Lemon Garlic Chicken pairs wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh arugula salad. Serve it alongside my Strawberry Cream Cake for a delightful finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, but ensure to thaw it completely before marinating.
- Can I grill this chicken instead? Absolutely! Just be sure to monitor the temperature.
- What can I substitute for garlic? Shallots could work as a milder alternative.
- How long can I keep leftovers? Refrigerate for 3 days or freeze for 2 months.
- Can I add vegetables to the marinade? Definitely! Bell peppers or zucchini would complement the dish well.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Garlic Chicken has become a staple in my kitchen, revealing layers of flavor with each bite. I truly enjoy it served with a rich couscous, garnished with fresh herbs. I invite you to try this recipe and share your favorite ways to serve it!
More Recipes You’ll Love
- Chicken Alfredo Lasagna – a creamy dish that beautifully complements the lemon and garlic flavors.
- Honey Garlic Chicken Jerky – shares the garlic base, creating a savory experience.
- Lemon Chicken Piccata – features similar citrus notes, enhancing your chicken repertoire.
- Easy Spicy Chicken Sandwich – perfect for layering flavors alongside grilled chicken.
- Garlic Butter Chicken Bites – another garlic-rich recipe that pairs well with side dishes.
Lemon Garlic Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 5 cloves garlic crushed or minced
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- 1/4 cup chopped Italian parsley plus more for garnish
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 4 large chicken breasts)
- to taste Kosher salt
- to taste Black pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- Zest and juice one lemon into a large bowl. Add olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and parsley and whisk to combine.1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Slice the chicken breast horizontally into cutlets and pound to flatten if necessary.1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Pat the chicken dry, season with salt and pepper, and add to the marinade for 30 minutes to 2 hours.1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook the chicken for about 4 minutes per side until golden brown.1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, garnish with parsley and lemon slices.1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil