Here’s a bright and flavorful recipe for Lemon Garlic Chicken, perfect for a quick and easy dinner:
Lemon Garlic Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter (optional, for extra richness)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or white wine)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional for a creamy version)
- 1 tsp dried thyme or rosemary
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts (or thighs) generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Cook the Chicken
- Heat the olive oil (and butter, if using) in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate, covering it loosely with foil to keep warm.
- Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add the chicken broth (or white wine) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and thyme (or rosemary). Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Make It Creamy (Optional)
- If you want a creamy sauce, stir in the heavy cream and simmer for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Return Chicken to the Pan
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Let it simmer in the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Serve
- Plate the chicken and pour the sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Tips:
- Heat Level: If you like a bit of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Vegetable Pairing: Serve with roasted vegetables, sautéed spinach, or a fresh salad to complete the meal.
- Rice or Potatoes: Serve over rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta to soak up the delicious sauce.
This Lemon Garlic Chicken is bright, flavorful, and perfect for a quick weeknight meal or dinner party!