Description

Lemon Chicken is a zesty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of fresh lemon juice, garlic, and herbs creates a tangy marinade that infuses the chicken with a refreshing citrus flavor. Whether you bake, grill, or pan-sear the chicken, the result is tender, juicy chicken with a bright and vibrant taste. Serve this delicious dish with a side of roasted vegetables, rice, or a crisp salad for a well-rounded meal.

Ingredients

Scale

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Coat the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
Cook the Chicken:
- Grill: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Pan-Sear: Heat a little olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Serve: Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, rice, or a salad.

Notes

Chicken Thighs Option: You can substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier option. Adjust the cooking time as needed, as thighs may take a little longer to cook through.
For Extra Zing: Add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for an extra layer of flavor.
Make-Ahead: Marinate the chicken overnight for the best flavor infusion.

Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version of this recipe.

Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cook Time: 15-25 minutes (depending on cooking method)
Category: Main Course, Chicken
Method: Grilling, Pan-searing, Baking
Cuisine: American, Mediterranean

Keywords: Lemon chicken, citrus chicken, grilled chicken, pan-seared chicken, baked chicken, easy chicken recipe