Easy & Delicious Lemon Garlic Chicken

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When I first made this Lemon Garlic Chicken, I wasn’t expecting it to become one of my most repeated go-to meals—but here we are. It’s flavorful, tender, and packs that punchy combo of lemon and garlic that instantly makes your mouth water. It’s the kind of meal you make when you want something simple yet deeply satisfying, with ingredients you probably already have at home.

What I love most is how quickly it comes together without sacrificing any flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, but it still feels like something you could serve to guests without blinking. The pan sauce is gold—bright with citrus, rich with garlic, and just the right touch of herbs. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll go straight into your weekly rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Garlic Chicken

This dish checks all the boxes: it’s fast, flavorful, and feels comforting without being heavy. The lemon brightens everything up, while the garlic and herbs add depth. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and pairs effortlessly with a wide variety of sides. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, it’s a recipe that delivers every time.

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What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe because they cook quickly and stay juicy when prepared properly. That said, boneless thighs work beautifully too if you’re looking for more flavor and a little extra richness. Just adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the cut and thickness.

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Options for Substitutions

Out of fresh lemon? Bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch, but fresh really makes a difference. No parsley? Try fresh basil or thyme for a slightly different herbal note. If you’re not into garlic (gasp!), a touch of shallot or onion can mellow things out while still bringing flavor. And for a dairy-free version, use olive oil instead of butter to finish the pan sauce.

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Ingredients for this Lemon Garlic Chicken

• Chicken breasts: The star of the dish—lean, protein-packed, and a great canvas for bold flavors.
• Fresh garlic: Minced and sautéed to release its rich, aromatic essence.
• Lemon juice and zest: Adds brightness and tang that cuts through the richness.
• Olive oil: Used for searing the chicken and as a base for the sauce.
• Butter: Optional but highly recommended to finish the sauce for a velvety texture.
• Fresh parsley: Adds a burst of color and fresh, herby flavor.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning both the chicken and the sauce.
• Dried Italian herbs: A mix of oregano, basil, and thyme rounds out the flavor profile.
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For a hint of heat.

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Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel to help them sear properly. If they’re thick, slice them in half lengthwise or pound them to an even thickness. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and dried Italian herbs.

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Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Once hot, place the chicken in the pan and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.

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Step 3: Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce

Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed, then sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn it.

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Step 4: Deglaze and Simmer

Add lemon juice and zest, scraping up the browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to let the flavors meld. Add a small pat of butter if using, and stir until melted into the sauce.

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Step 5: Return Chicken to Pan

Place the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet. Spoon the sauce over them and let them simmer in the sauce for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to fully absorb.

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Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if using) over the top. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

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How Long to Prepare the Lemon Garlic Chicken

Prep Time: The preparation for this dish takes about 10-15 minutes. That includes gathering your ingredients, zesting and juicing the lemon, mincing the garlic, and seasoning the chicken. If you’re pounding or slicing thick chicken breasts, add a few extra minutes.

Cooking Time: Cooking usually takes another 15-20 minutes. Searing the chicken on both sides should take about 8-10 minutes total depending on thickness, and making the sauce adds another 5 minutes. Altogether, you’re looking at roughly 30-35 minutes from start to finish.

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Tips for Perfect Lemon Garlic Chicken

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and real garlic make a noticeable difference compared to bottled or powdered alternatives.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give each chicken piece space so it sears properly rather than steaming.
• Adjust heat carefully: Medium-high for searing, medium-low for simmering the sauce. This avoids burning garlic or drying out the chicken.
• Deglaze well: Scraping up the browned bits after adding lemon juice brings loads of flavor into the sauce.
• Let it rest: Give the chicken a minute or two to sit before slicing to retain juices.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the chicken: Chicken breasts dry out quickly—use a thermometer if needed (165°F internal temp is ideal).
• Burning the garlic: Garlic cooks fast; sauté just until fragrant, not brown.
• Skipping the zest: Lemon zest adds depth that lemon juice alone can’t match.
• Using cold chicken: Let it come to room temperature for even cooking.
• Forgetting to taste: Always adjust seasoning before serving!

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What to Serve With Lemon Garlic Chicken?

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy and savory, they soak up the lemony pan sauce beautifully.

2. Steamed Green Beans

A simple, fresh side that complements the brightness of the dish.

3. Herbed Quinoa

Adds texture and a nutty contrast, plus it’s a healthy grain option.

4. Roasted Asparagus

Crisp and slightly charred, it pairs well with citrusy flavors.

5. Warm Crusty Bread

Perfect for mopping up every drop of that flavorful sauce.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Store leftover Lemon Garlic Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the chicken has cooled completely before sealing.

Freezer: You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 months. It’s best to slice it before freezing so it reheats evenly.

Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or broth to keep the chicken moist. Avoid microwaving for too long as it can dry out the meat.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per Serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 290
• Protein: 33g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 310mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The safest way is to use a meat thermometer. Chicken is done at 165°F (74°C). It should also be firm to the touch and no longer pink inside.

Can I use chicken thighs instead?

Yes, boneless skinless thighs work well and offer more flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly since thighs take a bit longer.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, it’s low in carbs and high in protein and fat, making it great for keto diets.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep everything in advance and even cook the chicken earlier in the day. Just reheat gently in the sauce before serving.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs?

Dried herbs work fine—just use less (about 1/3 the amount you would use for fresh) since they’re more concentrated.

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Conclusion

Lemon Garlic Chicken is one of those magical recipes that hits all the right notes—quick, delicious, and versatile. Whether you’re cooking for yourself on a weeknight or serving guests over the weekend, this dish delivers vibrant flavor with minimal fuss. With a few pantry staples and fresh ingredients, you get a beautifully balanced meal that tastes like it took way more effort than it actually did. Give it a try, and watch it become a regular at your dinner table.

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