Lemon Garlic Chicken is a fresh, flavorful one-skillet dish bursting with zesty citrus and savory herbs. Tender chicken breasts are pan-seared to golden perfection, then simmered in a vibrant lemon-garlic sauce with a touch of honey for balance. It’s a quick and easy weeknight dinner that pairs beautifully with rice, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad.
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Garlic Chicken
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Ready in under 30 minutes
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Uses simple pantry staples
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Bright, tangy flavor from fresh lemon juice
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Naturally gluten-free and low carb
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Perfect for meal prep and healthy eating plans
Ingredients Breakdown
For the Chicken:
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Lean protein, juicy and satisfying.
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Salt and pepper – Enhances flavor with a simple seasoning base.
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2 tablespoons olive oil – Used for searing, adds richness and helps develop a golden crust.
For the Sauce:
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4 cloves garlic, minced – Delivers bold, aromatic flavor.
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1/4 cup chicken broth – Adds savory depth to the sauce.
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1/4 cup fresh lemon juice – Brightens and balances with a citrusy zing.
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1 tablespoon honey – Rounds out the tartness with a hint of sweetness.
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that complements the lemon and garlic.
For Garnish:
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Fresh parsley, chopped – Adds color and freshness.
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Lemon slices – Enhances presentation and citrus aroma.
Tips and Tricks
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Pound chicken to even thickness for faster, more even cooking.
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Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt content.
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Fresh lemon juice is best—avoid bottled if possible.
Variations and Customizations
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Add veggies: Toss in asparagus, spinach, or green beans during the final simmer.
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Make it creamy: Stir in 2 tablespoons of heavy cream or cream cheese at the end.
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Use chicken thighs: Substitute boneless, skinless thighs for juicier meat.
Pairing Suggestions
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Sides: Rice pilaf, garlic mashed potatoes, or quinoa
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Veggies: Roasted broccoli, sautéed spinach, or steamed green beans
Storage Instructions
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Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
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Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave
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Freeze: Freeze cooked chicken and sauce in a sealed container for up to 2 months
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is highly recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.
Can I double the sauce?
Absolutely! Just double all sauce ingredients for extra spoon-worthy flavor.
What’s the best way to reheat without drying out the chicken?
Reheat in a covered skillet with a splash of broth or water to keep the chicken moist.