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Lemon Chicken

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Lemon Chicken is a bright, flavorful dish that combines the tanginess of fresh lemon with the savory goodness of tender, juicy chicken. This recipe delivers a light yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter (optional for extra richness)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • Zest and juice of 2 lemons
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth (or white wine for extra flavor)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme or dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
  2. Cook the chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil (and butter, if using) over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or 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.
  3. Make the lemon sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant, but not browned. Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, chicken broth (or white wine), and thyme to the skillet. Stir to combine, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet for extra flavor. Let the sauce simmer for about 3-4 minutes, reducing slightly.
  4. Return the chicken: Once the sauce has thickened slightly, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Spoon the sauce over the chicken and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to soak up the flavors of the lemon sauce.
  5. Serve: Garnish the lemon chicken with fresh chopped parsley and additional lemon slices, if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Notes

Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs: Use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for a richer, juicier option. They’ll take a little longer to cook, so make sure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).Lemon Herb Chicken: Add extra herbs such as rosemary, oregano, or basil to the sauce for an added depth of flavor.Spicy Lemon Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped fresh chili for a spicy kick.Creamy Lemon Chicken: For a creamier sauce, add 1/4 cup of heavy cream or coconut cream to the sauce, stirring it in after the broth. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken.

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