Description
A simple and flavorful Lemon Garlic Chicken recipe featuring tender, juicy chicken breasts or thighs marinated in a bright blend of fresh lemon juice, zest, garlic, olive oil, and herbs. Quick to prepare and packed with fresh, zesty flavors, this versatile dish is perfect for weekday meals and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Marinade
- Juice of 2 fresh lemons
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or oregano
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, olive oil, dried herbs, salt, and pepper to create a bright, savory marinade that will infuse the chicken with flavor and juiciness.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts or thighs into a shallow dish or zip-top bag, then pour the marinade over to ensure each piece is evenly coated. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or longer if possible, to let the flavors deeply penetrate.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of olive oil. When hot, add the chicken and cook undisturbed for about 6-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and let it rest for a few minutes to retain juices and tenderness. Serve immediately, optionally drizzling with pan juices or garnishing with extra lemon slices.
Notes
- Use fresh lemons rather than bottled lemon juice for better flavor.
- Resting the chicken after cooking locks in juiciness and improves texture.
- Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure even cooking.
- Start with a hot pan to achieve a beautiful golden crust for extra flavor.
- Marinate longer if time allows for deeper lemon and garlic flavor infusion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: American / Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast/thigh with marinade
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg