Keto Lemon Garlic Chicken
This keto lemon garlic chicken features tender, juicy chicken breasts seared to a golden crust and coated in a vibrant lemon and garlic sauce. The dish highlights the bright citrus and pungent garlic flavors, resulting in a fresh, flavorful, and light main course with a glossy, appetizing appearance.
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Tongs
- Sharp knife
- Juicer or reamer
Ingredients
- 4 pieces chicken breasts, skinless and boneless preferably thin cutlets for quicker cooking
- 2 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin preferred for flavor
- 1 clove garlic fresh, minced
- 1 lemon lemon zest and juice
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or thyme chopped for garnish
- to taste salt & pepper season generously
Instructions
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels, then season generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Set aside.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering and just starting to smoke slightly.
- Add the chicken breasts to the pan, laying them flat. Cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, until they develop a golden-brown crust and are cooked through. Use tongs to flip carefully and avoid tearing the meat.
- While the chicken is cooking, zest one lemon directly over the pan for a burst of citrus aroma, then juice the lemon and set aside about 2 tablespoons of the juice.
- Once the chicken is golden and cooked through (internal temperature of 75°C/165°F), transfer it to a plate and let it rest for about 5 minutes to keep it juicy.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté over medium heat until fragrant and golden, about 30 seconds. Be careful not to let it burn.
- Pour in the freshly squeezed lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for about a minute until slightly reduced and fragrant.
- Return the rested chicken to the pan, spooning the lemon-garlic sauce over the top. Warm through for 1-2 minutes, ensuring the chicken is coated with the bright, glossy sauce.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or thyme, then serve immediately, spooning extra sauce over the chicken for maximum flavor and visual appeal.