Why Make This Recipe
Quick and Easy Lemon Chicken is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The bright flavors of lemon and garlic combined with the richness of parmesan cheese make this dish a winner for family meals or simple gatherings. Plus, it uses only a few ingredients you probably already have at home!
How to Make Quick and Easy Lemon Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 2 lemons
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then coat them in parmesan cheese.
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in lemon juice and let it simmer for a couple of minutes.
- Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
- Drizzle the garlic lemon butter sauce over the cooked chicken and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
How to Serve Quick and Easy Lemon Chicken
Serve your Quick and Easy Lemon Chicken on a bed of rice or alongside some steamed vegetables. The zesty flavor pairs well with a light salad or roasted potatoes. Adding some extra lemon wedges on the side can enhance the dish for those who love a citrus kick!
How to Store Quick and Easy Lemon Chicken
To store any leftovers, let the chicken cool completely, then place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to three months. When reheating, do so gently to keep the chicken moist.
Tips to Make Quick and Easy Lemon Chicken
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in lemon juice and garlic for an hour before cooking.
- If you like a crispy texture, consider broiling the chicken for the last few minutes instead of baking.
- Always check that the chicken is cooked through by using a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
Variation
Feel free to add vegetables like asparagus or broccoli to the skillet during the cooking process for a one-pan meal. You can also swap out parmesan cheese for another cheese like mozzarella or feta if you prefer.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs will add more flavor and stay moist. Just adjust the cooking time as they may take longer to cook.
What can I use instead of butter?
You can use olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative to make the dish dairy-free.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
While fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor, you can use bottled juice in a pinch. Just make sure it’s 100% juice without added sugars or preservatives.
Quick and Easy Lemon Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces chicken breasts Boneless, skinless
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese Grated
- 1/2 cup butter Unsalted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic recommended
- 2 pieces lemons, juiced Fresh lemon juice preferred
- Salt and pepper To taste
- Fresh parsley For garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then coat them in parmesan cheese.
Cooking
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in lemon juice and let it simmer for a couple of minutes.
- Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
- Drizzle the garlic lemon butter sauce over the cooked chicken and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.