Go Back

Lemon Chicken

This lemon chicken recipe uses simple ingredients and quick cooking techniques to create a bright, flavorful dish. Juicy chicken breasts are seared until golden, then finished with a fresh lemon sauce that adds vibrancy and tang. The final result is tender, crispy chicken topped with a zesty, glossy sauce—perfect for a lively spring meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Spring
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Medium skillet
  • Tongs
  • Sharp knife
  • Meat thermometer

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces chicken breasts skinless, boneless
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin preferred
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice about 1 lemon
  • 1 lemon lemon zest from one lemon, added after cooking
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels, then season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
  • Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat until it shimmers and just begins to smoke slightly.
  • Place the chicken breasts into the hot skillet and cook undisturbed for about 5-6 minutes, until the underside is golden and develops a slight crust. Use tongs to flip them carefully.
  • Cook the chicken on the second side for another 5-6 minutes, until the meat is opaque and a meat thermometer reads 75°C (165°F).
  • While the chicken finishes cooking, zest a lemon using a microplane, avoiding the bitter pith, and set the zest aside.
  • Once the chicken is cooked through, transfer it to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps keep the juices inside.
  • Pour out any excess oil from the skillet, then add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, with a gentle sizzling sound.
  • Squeeze the fresh lemon juice into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer gently for 1-2 minutes until slightly reduced and fragrant.
  • Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning some of the lemon sauce over the top, then sprinkle with the lemon zest and chopped parsley.
  • Serve the lemon chicken hot, garnished with extra herbs if desired, alongside your favorite spring vegetables or a light salad.