There is something truly special about a dish that comes together quickly, packs a burst of bright flavor, and feels like a warm hug on a plate. This Easy Lemon Chicken Recipe is exactly that kind of meal. Juicy, golden chicken cutlets are drenched in a luscious lemon-butter sauce that’s tangy without being overpowering, creating a perfect balance of savory and zesty. Whether you’re whipping it up for a busy weeknight or sharing with friends on the weekend, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that turns simple ingredients into a memorable dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward, yet each one plays a crucial role in building flavor, enhancing texture, and making this Easy Lemon Chicken Recipe shine. They’re pantry staples that transform everyday chicken into a star dish.
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts: Sliced into thinner cutlets for quick, even cooking and maximum juiciness.
- Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the chicken.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle depth and gentle garlic aroma without overpowering the tangy lemon.
- Flour (for dredging): Creates a delicate crust that helps the chicken brown beautifully and thickens the sauce slightly.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a fruity, rich base for frying the chicken to golden perfection.
- 3 tablespoons butter (divided): Brings silky richness to the sauce and helps develop a wonderful golden crust on the chicken.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Boosts savory notes and adds moisture that becomes part of the luscious sauce.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice + zest of 1/2 lemon: The star of the dish, these add vibrant acidity and aromatic brightness.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional, to taste): A fresh, herbaceous finish that adds color and a burst of freshness.
How to Make Easy Lemon Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Cutlets
Start by slicing the chicken breasts in half lengthwise. This simple trick creates thin cutlets that cook evenly and faster, retaining their juicy texture. Season generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, then gently dredge each piece in flour. This step is key for developing a beautiful golden surface and helping the sauce cling to the chicken later.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Warm olive oil and one tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully lay the chicken cutlets down and cook them for 4 to 5 minutes on each side. You’ll want to see a gorgeous golden crust form – that caramelization is flavor magic. Once browned, set the chicken aside to rest; this keeps it tender and juicy.
Step 3: Create the Zesty Lemon Sauce
In the same skillet, add your chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, and the remaining butter. Allow this mixture to bubble gently, reducing slightly into a glossy sauce packed with bright, tangy flavor. The butter mellows the lemon’s tartness, creating a beautifully balanced sauce that perfectly complements the chicken.
Step 4: Finish Cooking the Chicken in the Sauce
Return the chicken cutlets to the skillet, spooning some sauce over the top. Let them cook for a few more minutes until fully cooked through and the sauce has thickened just enough to coat the chicken beautifully. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, then sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired for an added pop of color and flavor.
How to Serve Easy Lemon Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic garnish that brings a welcome freshness and bright color to this dish. For an extra lemony punch, a few thin lemon slices or a sprinkle of additional zest can really elevate the presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
This Easy Lemon Chicken Recipe pairs beautifully with simple sides that soak up the delicious sauce. Think buttery mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or even a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or green beans also add a satisfying crunch and color contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, slice the chicken and fan it out on a platter, drizzling extra sauce over the top and garnishing with lemon slices and parsley sprigs. Or, serve individual portions atop a bed of couscous or quinoa mixed with fresh herbs and toasted nuts for a delightful textural play.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let the chicken cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce will thicken in the fridge, so you may want to loosen it with a splash of chicken broth or water when reheating.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover Easy Lemon Chicken Recipe for up to 2 months. Place the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container or bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Reheating
Reheat gently over low-medium heat in a skillet, adding a little chicken broth to loosen the sauce and keep the chicken moist. Avoid high heat, which can dry the chicken out. Alternatively, use the microwave at medium power in short bursts, stirring the sauce between intervals.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will add extra richness and stay tender, but they may require slightly longer cooking times. Be sure to adjust accordingly and check for doneness.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Not as written, since it uses flour for dredging. However, you can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to keep it gluten-free without compromising the golden crust.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the butter for a dairy-free margarine or extra olive oil. The sauce will still be flavorful, though slightly different in texture.
How can I make the sauce more lemony?
For an extra citrus kick, add a bit more lemon juice or a touch of lemon zest at the end of cooking. Just balance it carefully with the butter to keep the sauce silky and smooth.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely. It reheats well and the flavors deepen over time. Just store the chicken and sauce separately from any sides you’ll be serving, and combine them when ready to eat.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Lemon Chicken Recipe has quickly become a personal favorite because it proves that simple, fresh ingredients and a few easy steps can create something truly delicious. It’s a go-to meal when I want something comforting yet light, flavorful yet fuss-free. I hope you enjoy making and sharing it as much as I do. Trust me, this one is a keeper!
Print
Easy Lemon Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This easy lemon chicken recipe features tender chicken cutlets sautéed to golden perfection and finished with a bright, buttery lemon sauce. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a flavorful weeknight dinner that’s simple yet elegant.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Flour, for dredging
Sauce & Cooking
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter, divided
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Zest of 1/2 lemon
- Chopped fresh parsley, optional, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create thinner cutlets. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Dredge the cutlets lightly in flour to coat evenly.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. When the pan is hot, add the chicken cutlets. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, and the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Let the mixture simmer for a couple of minutes, allowing it to bubble and start to reduce.
- Finish Cooking: Return the chicken cutlets to the pan, spoon some sauce over them, and cook for an additional few minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top, if desired. Serve immediately with your choice of side dishes.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken breasts briefly in lemon juice and garlic powder before cooking.
- Using skinless, boneless chicken breasts helps them cook quickly and evenly.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a small amount of flour or cornstarch with water and add to the sauce while simmering.
- Serve with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
