This easy lemon chicken recipe is a quick and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With boneless, skinless chicken breasts, lemon juice, garlic, and a simple sauce made from chicken broth and butter, this meal comes together in under 30 minutes. It’s a versatile recipe that can be paired with a variety of sides, including rice, mashed potatoes, or vegetables. The tangy lemon sauce adds a burst of freshness that complements the chicken perfectly. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a casual gathering, this easy lemon chicken is a go-to meal that’s both delicious and simple to make.

Ingredients

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Flour, for dredging
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 tablespoons butter, divided
1/2 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons lemon juice + zest of 1/2 lemon
Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:
Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create thinner cutlets. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Dredge the chicken in flour, coating it evenly.
Cook the Chicken:
Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, add the chicken cutlets and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest, along with the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Let the mixture bubble for a couple of minutes to reduce slightly.
Combine and Cook:
Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer for a few more minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and the sauce to thicken further. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot with your choice of sides.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavorful: The lemon and garlic combination creates a refreshing, tangy sauce that complements the chicken perfectly.
Versatile: Pair this dish with a variety of sides like rice, mashed potatoes, or vegetables.
Minimal Ingredients: With just a few pantry staples, this dish delivers big flavor without a lot of effort.

Tips

Use Thin Cutlets: If you don’t want to slice the chicken yourself, you can buy pre-cut thin chicken cutlets to save time.
Adjust Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer until it reduces to your liking.
Add More Flavor: Add a dash of white wine or a splash of heavy cream to the sauce for an extra layer of richness.

Variations and Substitutions

Chicken Thighs: You can substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for chicken breasts for a juicier result.
Herbs: Add thyme, rosemary, or basil for additional flavor.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with tofu or another plant-based protein for a vegetarian version.
Butter Substitute: Use olive oil instead of butter for a lighter alternative.

FAQs

Q: Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
A: While fresh lemon juice is preferred for its flavor, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.

Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
A: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce to give it some heat.

Q: Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can bread the chicken and store it in the fridge before cooking. Just cook it when you’re ready.

Serving and Suggestions

Serve the lemon chicken with steamed vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans for a light meal.
Pair it with roasted potatoes or a quinoa salad for a more filling dish.
For extra richness, drizzle the lemon sauce over a side of mashed potatoes or rice.
This chicken also makes a great topping for a fresh salad or can be served on a bed of pasta.