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Irresistible Lemon Garlic Chicken – A Perfect Balance of Zest and Savory

Lemon Garlic Chicken

Victoria
Enjoy a flavorful, easy to make lemon garlic chicken recipe that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Tender  juicy and packed with fresh flavors
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4 PEOPLE
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs (about 4 pieces) – Chicken breasts will give you a lean, tender bite, while thighs offer a juicier, richer flavor. Choose your favorite!
  • Fresh lemon juice – The tang of fresh lemon is the star of the show! Be sure to squeeze it fresh for the best flavor.
  • Minced garlic – Adds that savory aromatic base to the marinade.
  • Olive oil – For a little richness and to help the marinade cling to the chicken.
  • Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning and bringing out all those flavors.
  • Paprika – For a slight smoky kick and gorgeous color.
  • Dried oregano – Gives a Mediterranean flavor boost.
  • Fresh parsley optional – Adds a pop of color and freshness when serving.

For the Garlic Butter Sauce

  • Butter – Adds richness and helps create a silky flavorful sauce.
  • Garlic powder – For an extra layer of garlic goodness.
  • Lemon zest – A hint of zest to enhance the lemon flavor.
  • Fresh parsley – For garnish and a little extra burst of color and freshness.

Pro Tip:

  • Feel free to adjust the ingredients to your taste. Want it spicier? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade. Looking for a dairy-free version? Swap butter with olive oil for a lighter option.
  • Now that you have everything you need let’s move on to making this delicious Lemon Garlic Chicken! Ready to get cooking?

Instructions
 

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

  • The first step is creating the flavorful marinade that will make the chicken irresistible. Start by combining the following in a bowl:
  • Fresh lemon juice – This will infuse the chicken with a bright, tangy flavor.
  • Minced garlic – The garlic adds depth and richness.
  • Olive oil – Helps to tenderize the chicken and lock in moisture.
  • Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning.
  • Paprika – Adds a touch of smokiness and a rich color.
  • Dried oregano – Brings an earthy, Mediterranean flair to the dish.
  • Once your marinade is mixed, coat the chicken evenly and let it sit for 20 minutes or up to an hour. If you're in a rush, even just a short marinate will work wonders, but the longer it sits, the more flavor the chicken will absorb.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

  • Next, it’s time to bring the chicken to life with your choice of cooking method. You can pan-sear, bake, or grill the chicken for different textures and flavors.
  • Pan-searing: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add a little olive oil, and cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side. This method creates a beautifully browned exterior while keeping the chicken juicy inside.
  • Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet and cook for 25-30 minutes. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  • Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, until cooked through and beautifully charred.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

  • While the chicken is cooking, you can make the rich garlic butter sauce that takes this dish to the next level. In a small pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add:
  • Minced garlic – For that aromatic, garlicky base.
  • Lemon zest – To enhance the citrusy notes.
  • Garlic powder – To bring a little extra punch.
  • Let the butter and garlic cook for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant, then set aside. Once the chicken is done, drizzle this garlic butter sauce over the top for a finishing touch that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

  • To finish off your Lemon Garlic Chicken, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top. Not only does it add a pop of color, but it also brings freshness that complements the richness of the dish.
  • Serve your chicken alongside sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or even a light green salad for a balanced meal.
  • With these simple steps, you’ve created a succulent, flavorful chicken that’s sure to impress. Enjoy the combination of tangy lemon, rich garlic, and tender chicken in every bite!

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
  • Calories: 350
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Carbohydrates: 5g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg
  • Sodium: 420mg
  • Potassium: 650mg
  • Vitamin A: 10% DV
  • Vitamin C: 25% DV
  • Calcium: 4% DV
  • Iron: 6% DV
Keyword Chicken Breast, Keto Dinner, Lemon Garlic Chicken