Easy Lemon Chicken with Garlic

Lemon chicken is a versatile dish that can be prepared in various ways to suit different occasions and tastes. It is widely popular for its simple preparation and the delicious flavor it provides. Here, we will share an easy-to-make recipe for lemon chicken with garlic, which can be served as a main course or side dish.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Paprika (optional)

Cooking Time: Approximately 40 minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Preparation Steps:

Begin by preparing your ingredients. Rinse the chicken breasts thoroughly under cold water, pat dry with paper towels, and then season them generously with salt and pepper.

In a small bowl, combine the lemon zest, juice, minced garlic, and paprika (if using) for the marinade. Place the seasoned chicken in this mixture to coat well. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator; this allows flavors to blend perfectly.

After marinating, heat up a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat until hot. Add the olive oil and swirl around to evenly spread the oil across the bottom of the pan. Place the chicken pieces into the heated pan ensuring they are not overcrowded so they brown properly without steaming. Cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, adjusting the heat as necessary to prevent burning. Once done, remove from the skillet and set aside.

Lower the heat down to medium; now add more olive oil if needed. Sauté the garlic until fragrant but not browned—about a minute or two. Pour in any remaining marinade over the chicken pieces, then cover loosely with foil. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for another 15-20 minutes, basting occasionally.

Once cooked through and tender (check by inserting a thermometer into the thickest part of each breast—it should read around 165°F or until juices run clear), transfer the chicken breasts onto plates. Serve hot with steamed vegetables like green beans or asparagus for added color and nutrition if desired.

Tips & Tricks:

• To ensure even cooking, try to use similar-sized chicken pieces so they all finish at approximately the same time.
• For extra flavor complexity, consider adding a few slices of lemon directly into the skillet while basting. This enhances both visual appeal and taste.
• If you prefer less citrus in your dish, simply reduce or omit adding too much juice during preparation without compromising the recipe's integrity.

Note: While serving this meal, it’s advisable to accompany it with a fresh salad or some crusty bread. The acidity of lemon works beautifully against alkaline components such as olive oil and bread, creating balance within your meal.

About Lemon Chicken:

Lemon chicken is beloved for its simplicity yet complexity in taste. Its bright citrus notes complement almost any type of main dish making it an excellent choice for various meals ranging from casual weeknight dinners to special celebrations. Whether you're looking for something comforting or exciting, lemon chicken offers the perfect balance—refreshing and satisfying all at once.By following this straightforward recipe, preparing your homemade lemon chicken with garlic will become second nature in no time. With minimal effort and maximum impact on your palate, this dish promises not only delicious results but also peace of mind knowing you prepared it yourself from scratch using quality ingredients.