If you’re searching for a weeknight dinner that’s both bright and satisfying, look no further than this Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe. Juicy, golden chicken breasts are bathed in a zesty lemon-garlic sauce that’s packed with Mediterranean flair. It comes together quickly, fills your kitchen with incredible aromas, and delivers a punch of fresh flavor in every bite. This is one of those dishes that’s easy enough for a Tuesday, yet elegant enough to impress guests on the weekend.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe keeps things simple, letting each ingredient shine. Every component here plays a role, from the richness of the olive oil to the fresh burst of lemon and the earthy warmth of oregano. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:
- Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless breasts are lean yet juicy when cooked properly, making them the perfect canvas for bold flavors.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps the chicken sear beautifully for that crave-worthy golden crust.
- Garlic: Four cloves infuse the dish with irresistible aroma and sharp, savory depth.
- Salt: Essential for bringing out all the savory notes and keeping the chicken juicy.
- Black pepper: Provides a gentle heat that lifts the other flavors.
- Dried oregano: Earthy and herby, it gives the dish its unmistakable Mediterranean character.
- Paprika: Adds a mild smokiness and a gorgeous hint of color.
- Lemon juice: Bright, tangy, and vibrant, it’s the star of the sauce and lifts up every bite.
- Lemon zest: Intensifies the citrus flavor, making the dish taste extra fresh and lively.
- Chicken broth: Adds moisture and helps create a savory sauce to spoon over the chicken.
- Fresh parsley (optional): For garnish, it brings a pop of color and a fresh, peppery finish.
- Lemon slices (for serving): Not just pretty—these extra slices let everyone dial up the lemon as they like.
How to Make Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F so it’s ready to go. Pat your chicken breasts dry with paper towels—this is key for getting a deep golden sear. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and paprika. This not only flavors the chicken but also gives it a beautiful, appetizing color.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the chicken breasts and let them cook undisturbed for 3 to 4 minutes per side. Don’t move them around; this helps develop that gorgeous golden crust that locks in juiciness. Flip and repeat on the other side.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Aromatics
Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown, as burnt garlic can turn bitter. This quick sauté releases the garlic’s flavor into the oil, setting the foundation for your luscious sauce.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Pour in the freshly squeezed lemon juice, sprinkle in the zest, and add chicken broth to the skillet. Use a spoon to baste the chicken with some of the flavorful pan juices. This is where the Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe gets its signature tangy, savory kick.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This oven finish keeps the chicken tender and lets all the flavors meld together. Once done, spoon the pan juices over the chicken for maximum flavor.
How to Serve Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Give your Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe a finishing touch with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley and a few lemon slices. Not only do they make the dish look vibrant and inviting, but the parsley adds a fresh, herby note that contrasts beautifully with the rich sauce.
Side Dishes
This chicken is wonderfully versatile, so pair it with your favorites. Fluffy rice or buttery mashed potatoes will soak up the tangy sauce, while roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad keep things light and colorful. For a heartier Mediterranean feel, try it over pasta or with a wedge of warm, crusty bread.
Creative Ways to Present
For a showstopping presentation, slice the chicken breasts and fan them out on a platter, drizzle generously with the lemon-garlic sauce, and scatter with extra herbs and lemon zest. Or, serve each chicken breast whole on a bed of greens for a restaurant-worthy plate that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe keeps beautifully. Let the chicken cool to room temperature, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to include any extra sauce so the chicken stays moist.
Freezing
This recipe is freezer-friendly! Slice the cooled chicken if you like, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container with some of the sauce. It will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, place the chicken and sauce in a covered skillet over low heat until warmed through, or microwave gently with a splash of extra broth to keep it juicy. Avoid overcooking so the chicken stays tender and flavorful.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Bone-in, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully in this Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe. Just extend the baking time by about 10-15 minutes, or until the thighs reach 175°F internally for maximum tenderness.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for those following a gluten-free or low-carb diet. Just double-check that your chicken broth and seasonings are gluten-free if you’re sensitive.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead, then reheat gently before serving. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, so it’s a great make-ahead option for easy entertaining or meal prep.
What if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet?
No worries! Simply sear the chicken in a regular skillet, then transfer everything to a baking dish for the oven step. Just be sure to scrape up all the flavorful bits and sauce when transferring.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
This Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe is naturally dairy-free, as it uses olive oil and broth for richness. No substitutions needed—just enjoy as is!
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a meal that’s both easy to make and bursting with flavor, and that’s exactly what you get with this Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, I hope you’ll give it a try and savor every zesty, garlicky bite!
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Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Oven
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Lemon Garlic Chicken recipe is a simple and flavorful dish featuring juicy boneless skinless chicken breasts cooked in a zesty lemon and garlic sauce. Perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner, this Mediterranean-inspired meal is baked in the oven and garnished with fresh parsley and lemon slices to brighten every bite.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Sauce and Garnish
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Lemon slices for serving
Instructions
- Preheat and Season: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season both sides evenly with salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and paprika to infuse the meat with aromatic flavors.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and sear them for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden-brown crust. This step locks in juices and adds a beautiful color.
- Add Garlic: Reduce the heat slightly and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 30 seconds while stirring constantly to release the garlic’s fragrance, being careful not to let it burn.
- Create the Sauce: Pour in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth into the skillet. Use a spoon to baste the sauce over the chicken breasts. This mixture will add a bright, tangy flavor as the chicken bakes.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake the chicken for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) indicating the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and spoon the pan juices generously over the chicken breasts. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and lemon slices if desired for a fresh and vibrant presentation. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Serve this dish with rice, roasted vegetables, or over pasta for a complete and satisfying meal.
- Bone-in chicken thighs can be used as a substitute but will require a longer baking time, approximately 25-30 minutes in the oven.
- If preferred, the entire dish can be prepared on the stovetop by simmering covered on low heat until the chicken is cooked through.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 36 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
