why make this recipe
Quick Lemon Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the fresh taste of lemon with tender chicken. It’s simple to prepare and packed with flavor, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions. The ingredients are easy to find, and the cooking process is quick, giving you a delicious meal in just a short time. Plus, the garlic lemon butter sauce adds a rich taste that everyone will love.
how to make Quick Lemon Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place them in the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
- In a separate saucepan, melt the butter and add minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute.
- Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and Parmesan cheese until combined.
- Pour the garlic lemon butter sauce over the chicken in the skillet.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
how to serve Quick Lemon Chicken
You can serve Quick Lemon Chicken with a side of steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. The bright flavors of lemon and garlic pair well with a variety of sides. For an extra touch, you may want to drizzle more lemon sauce over the top when serving.
how to store Quick Lemon Chicken
To store leftovers, place the chicken in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing.
tips to make Quick Lemon Chicken
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice can taste more artificial.
- Don’t overcook the chicken, as it can become dry. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- You can substitute the Parmesan cheese with your favorite cheese if you prefer.
variation
You can add vegetables like asparagus or broccoli to the skillet for a one-pan meal. Another option is to use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier result. Feel free to experiment with different herbs, like thyme or rosemary, for a unique flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and combine them right before baking.
What can I serve with Quick Lemon Chicken?
You can serve it with rice, pasta, or a salad. Steamed vegetables also make a great side dish.
Quick Lemon Chicken
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 pieces chicken breasts Use boneless, skinless breasts for best results.
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup butter Unsalted butter is recommended.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice Freshly squeezed is preferred.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Can substitute with other cheeses if desired.
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Chopped parsley For garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place them in the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
Sauce
- In a separate saucepan, melt the butter and add minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute.
- Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and Parmesan cheese until combined.
- Pour the garlic lemon butter sauce over the chicken in the skillet.
Baking
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.