Go Back

Lemon Chicken Recipe

This fresh and flavorful Lemon Chicken Recipe features tender chicken cooked in a bright, tangy lemon sauce with garlic and butter. Perfect for quick dinners, this Easy Lemon Chicken is light, delicious, and pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or vegetables. A must-try for anyone who loves simple and satisfying Lemon Dinner Recipes!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients
  

  • 2 chicken breasts or thighs
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
  • Optional Add-ins:
  • 2 tablespoons honey for sweetness
  • ½ cup heavy cream for Creamy Lemon Butter Chicken
  • Lemon slices for garnish

Method
 

  1. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika.
  2. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat.
  3. Cook chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  4. In the same pan, sauté garlic until fragrant.
  5. Add chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
  6. Simmer for a few minutes until slightly reduced.
  7. Return chicken to the pan and coat with sauce.
  8. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until heated through.
  9. Garnish with parsley and lemon slices.
  10. Serve warm and enjoy.

Notes

Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
Do not overcook chicken to keep it juicy.
Add honey to balance the acidity if desired.
Add cream for a richer Lemon Butter Chicken variation.
Bake in the oven for a Baked Lemon Chicken Breast option.