Description
This Italian Lemon Chicken recipe features tender boneless chicken breasts marinated in a zesty lemon and garlic mixture, then pan-seared to golden perfection and finished with a luscious lemon butter sauce. Quick to prepare and bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors, it makes a perfect light dinner or sophisticated weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 2 boneless chicken breasts
Marinade
- Juice and zest of 2 fresh lemons
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (gluten-free if required)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until combined to create a tangy and herbaceous marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or zip-top bag. Pour the marinade evenly over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes or up to 1 hour in the refrigerator for deeper flavor absorption.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, reserving the marinade liquid. Cook the chicken breasts in the hot skillet for 5 to 6 minutes per side, or until they turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Make the Lemon Sauce: Pour the reserved marinade and chicken broth into the same skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly. Stir in the unsalted butter until fully melted and the sauce becomes glossy and well combined.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the chicken breasts and serve immediately, savoring the bright, savory Italian flavors.
Notes
- For best flavor, marinate the chicken for a full hour if time allows.
- Ensure the chicken is cooked through by checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- You can serve this dish with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal.
- Use gluten-free chicken broth to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Fresh parsley can be substituted with basil for a different herbaceous note.
