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Lemon garlic chicken with tender chicken breasts and bright lemon sauce

Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe

This lemon garlic chicken features tender chicken breasts cooked in a bright sauce made with fresh garlic, lemon juice, and simple seasonings. An easy skillet dinner perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 19 hours 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 430
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Chicken:
  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
Lemon Garlic Sauce:
  • 4 cloves fresh garlic minced
  • ¾ cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • Lemon slices for serving
Optional:
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme

Method
 

Prepare the Chicken:
  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry. If they are very thick, gently pound them to an even thickness. Season both sides with paprika, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Sear the Chicken:
  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 4–6 minutes per side until golden and nearly cooked through. Transfer to a clean plate.
Make the Sauce:
  1. Reduce the heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic and cook for 30–60 seconds. Add chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Finish the Chicken:
  1. Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over it. Simmer gently for another 2–4 minutes, turning once, until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
Serve:
  1. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices. Serve immediately with rice, vegetables, roasted potatoes, pasta, or your favorite side.

Notes

  • Pound thick chicken breasts evenly for consistent cooking.
  • Fresh garlic and freshly squeezed lemon give the best flavor.
  • Do not let the garlic burn.
  • Keep the sauce at a gentle simmer.
  • Chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) before serving.
  • Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be substituted.
  • Add red pepper flakes for a spicy version.
  • Heavy cream can be added for a creamy variation.
  • Serve with rice, potatoes, vegetables, or pasta.