Simple Yet Delicious Lemon Chicken Recipe

Lemon chicken is a classic dish that has been delighting food lovers for generations. This recipe provides an easy yet flavorful preparation of lemon chicken with minimal ingredients and cooking time. Perfectly balanced, this dish is not only delicious but also incredibly healthy if you opt for lean cuts of chicken and use fresh lemon juice.

To make your own tasty lemon chicken, follow the steps below:

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• 6 cloves garlic, minced finely
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (from about 2 lemons)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven or stovetop to medium heat. If using an oven, ensure it is at 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Set aside this marinade mixture for later use.
4. Heat up your chosen oil or butter in the pan until it shimmering. Place the chicken breasts into the pan skin-side down.
5. Cook for approximately 3-4 minutes on one side. Flip the chicken and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until both sides are golden brown and slightly crispy (this depends heavily on how much oil you used). If you're cooking in an oven, place the chicken breasts into it without browning them first.
6. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate. Pour any remaining sauce over the top of the chicken pieces.
7. To achieve more flavor and tenderness, place the chicken back into the pan for 30 seconds. This will also allow some additional crispy texture to form on the skin.
8. While your chicken is cooking, you can use that time to squeeze the lemon juice over the cooked chicken. Mix it with the garlic-lemon-oil mixture and brush or drizzle it all over the chicken for an extra burst of freshness and flavor.

The total cooking time should be around 12-15 minutes, depending on your stovetop's heat level and whether you are using an oven. If you're serving just two people, this recipe will give about four servings. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to five days or in the freezer for a few months.

Optional Garnish

If desired, garnish your lemon chicken with fresh parsley. This not only adds color but also enhances its taste and visual appeal.

Cooking at home has never been easier than this simple yet delicious lemon chicken recipe. It's perfect for casual dinners or even a quick lunch when you're short on time and need something nutritious, tasty, and satisfying all at the same time.

Health Benefits

Lemon chicken offers various health benefits beyond just being a delightful meal. Chicken itself is an excellent source of lean protein that helps build muscle mass and repair tissues. The vitamins C, B6, and B12 in lemon contribute to boosting your immune system while promoting energy production. Garlic has been shown to reduce high blood pressure and enhance heart health. Adding these ingredients together can be a delicious way to incorporate some nutritious choices into your diet.