Description
Lemon Chicken is a vibrant and fresh dish combining zesty citrus flavors with tender, juicy chicken. This recipe is quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights and adaptable to suit various dietary preferences. Featuring simple, wholesome ingredients, it delivers a bright and refreshing meal bursting with flavor and comfort.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken
- 4 skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Lemon Sauce
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- Juice and zest of 2 fresh lemons
- 1/4 cup vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1/2 teaspoon natural gelling agent
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
To Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry and season both sides with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until golden brown on each side, about 4-5 minutes per side, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove and set aside.
- Make the Lemon Sauce: In the same pan, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), chicken or vegetable broth, and the natural gelling agent. Stir well and let the sauce gently thicken while stirring occasionally.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the chicken to the pan and spoon the lemon sauce over each piece. Simmer for a few more minutes to allow the chicken to absorb the flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Finish by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley and, if desired, lemon slices on top. Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
- Use fresh lemons for the best brightness and flavor.
- Do not overcook the chicken to keep it juicy.
- If the sauce is too tart, add a pinch of natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey (natural).
- Sprinkle the natural gelling agent gradually and whisk constantly to avoid lumps and ensure smooth texture.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to lock in the juices.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: lemon chicken, easy lemon chicken, quick dinner, gluten free chicken recipe, fresh lemon chicken, healthy chicken dish