Description
Lemon Chicken is a vibrant and healthy dish featuring tender chicken pieces cooked quickly and coated in a zesty, tangy lemon sauce that perfectly balances savory and sweet notes. Easy to prepare and full of fresh flavors, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 500g boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
Lemon Sauce
- 2 fresh lemons (juice and zest)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (natural)
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Herbs and Garnishes
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or thyme, chopped
- Thin lemon slices or zest, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Trim any excess fat from the chicken and pat it dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper to ensure a flavorful base.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add chicken pieces in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook each side for about 4 to 5 minutes until golden brown and cooked through, with a crisp exterior.
- Make the Lemon Sauce: Remove the chicken from the skillet and lower the heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), and honey or maple syrup (natural). If a thicker sauce is desired, whisk in natural gelling agent dissolved in water. Let the sauce simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Combine and Finish: Return the chicken to the pan and coat each piece generously with the lemon sauce. Toss in freshly chopped parsley or thyme. Cook for an additional minute to meld flavors, then serve hot.
Notes
- Pat the chicken dry well for better searing and flavor.
- Use fresh lemons for the brightest flavor.
- Do not overcrowd the pan to ensure proper browning.
- Add honey or maple syrup gradually to balance the tartness of the lemon.
- Allow the chicken to rest a few minutes before serving to keep it juicy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Searing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: lemon chicken, easy dinner, quick recipe, healthy chicken, citrus chicken, gluten free
