Name: Lemon Chicken Recipe (with Lemon Butter Sauce)
Prep time: 18 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1.5 lb chicken breast (2 large, patted dry with paper towels); 1 Tbsp olive oil (to sauté); 1 Tbsp parsley (to garnish (optional)); 0.5 lemon lemon slices (for garnish (optional)); 2 large eggs; 1 clove garlic (minced); 0.5 tsp Italian seasoning; 0.5 tsp salt; 0.25 tsp ground black pepper; 1 cup Parmesan cheese (grated); 3 Tbsp all-purpose flour; 8 Tbsp unsalted butter; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 0.25 cup lemon juice; 0.25 cup chicken broth; 0.25 tsp ground black pepper

Introduction to Lemon Chicken Recipe

Cooking at home can feel like a daunting task for young professionals juggling busy schedules and endless obligations. However, a fantastic lemon chicken recipe might just be the answer you’re looking for. Not only is this dish quick and easy to make, but it also delivers vibrant flavors that can wow your taste buds and impress your dinner guests! In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a delicious, Parmesan-crusted lemon chicken accompanied by a zesty lemon butter sauce that elevates the dish from everyday to gourmet.

Why Homemade Lemon Chicken is a Game-Changer for Young Professionals

Imagine coming home after a long day and being able to prepare a fresh, restaurant-quality meal in no time. This lemon chicken recipe is straightforward, using familiar ingredients you may already have in your kitchen. By cooking at home, you not only save money that might otherwise be spent on takeout, but you also get to control the quality and nutritional value of your meal. Studies show that cooking at home can lead to healthier eating habits, and it gives you a chance to unwind and unleash your creativity in the kitchen. So, let’s dive into this simple yet delectable recipe that’ll fit seamlessly into your busy lifestyle!

Ingredients for Lemon Chicken Recipe

Creating a delicious lemon chicken recipe starts with gathering the right ingredients. Here’s a breakdown to help you get started!

List of essential ingredients for lemon chicken

Chicken Breasts: Use 1 ½ lbs of chicken breasts (around 2 large pieces), patted dry. This ensures they fry up nicely.
Olive Oil: You’ll need 1 tablespoon for sautéing the chicken.
Eggs: Two large eggs create a perfect binding base for the breading.
Parmesan Cheese: A full cup of grated Parmesan brings incredible flavor to the crust.
Garlic: Two minced cloves add depth to both the chicken and the sauce.
Lemon Juice: ¼ cup fresh lemon juice brightens up your dish.
Butter: Eight tablespoons of unsalted butter create that luscious sauce we all love.

Optional ingredients for a twist

Feel free to customize your lemon chicken recipe by adding:

Fresh Herbs: Toss in some thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist.
Sliced Lemons: Garnishing with lemon slices not only looks great but enhances the citrus flavor.
Spices: A pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper can add some heat!
Chicken Broth: Use ¼ cup of chicken broth to enrich your sauce even further.

These simple yet flavorful ingredients will elevate your lemon chicken to the next level! For more tips and techniques, check out Natasha's Kitchen.

Preparing Lemon Chicken Recipe

If you're ready to impress your friends or simply enjoy a delectable meal at home, this Lemon Chicken Recipe is your golden ticket. You’ll love how straightforward it is to craft this dish, especially with that mouthwatering lemon butter sauce. Let’s get started!

Prep the chicken

Begin by prepping about 1.5 pounds of chicken breast—two large pieces should do the trick. First, cut each breast in half lengthwise to create thinner fillets for faster cooking. Using a meat mallet, gently pound the chicken to an even thickness. This not only helps with cooking but also ensures that every bite is tender and juicy. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to help the parmesan crust adhere better during cooking.

Make the egg mixture

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the following ingredients for the egg mixture:

2 large eggs
1 minced garlic clove
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

This flavorful mix will serve as the perfect binding agent for our parmesan coating. Make sure it's well combined for the best results!

Combine the parmesan breading

In another bowl, combine 1 cup of grated parmesan cheese with 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. This mixture will give your chicken that irresistible crispy texture. Dredge the chicken in the egg mixture first, and then coat it thoroughly in the parmesan mixture. Allow any excess coating to fall off to prevent a clumpy crust when cooking.

Cook the chicken to perfection

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully lay the chicken fillets in the pan, cooking for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. If you notice they are browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly.

Create the lemon butter sauce

While the chicken is cooking, it’s time to whip up that delicious lemon butter sauce. In a separate saucepan, melt 8 tablespoons of unsalted butter with 2 minced garlic cloves, allowing them to cook until fragrant (about 1-2 minutes). Stir in ¼ cup each of lemon juice and chicken broth, along with ¼ teaspoon of ground black pepper. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes, melding all those delightful flavors.

Once your chicken is cooked, pour the buttery sauce over the chicken, turning it gently to coat fully. Serve with garnishes of lemon slices and fresh parsley for that extra flair.

And there you have it! A delightful Lemon Chicken Recipe that’s bound to become a weeknight favorite. Enjoy your culinary creation!

Variations on Lemon Chicken Recipe

Lemon Chicken with Herbs

Elevate your lemon chicken recipe by introducing fresh herbs! Consider adding rosemary, thyme, or oregano for a fragrant twist. Simply chop the herbs finely and mix them into your egg mixture before dipping the chicken. This adds an aromatic depth that perfectly complements the bright lemon butter sauce. You can also garnish your dish with additional fresh herbs when serving.

Lemon Chicken with Veggies

For a complete meal, serve lemon chicken alongside vibrant veggies. Roasted asparagus, sautéed spinach, or steamed broccoli not only add color but also enhance the nutrition of your dinner. To incorporate veggies into your recipe, toss them in the skillet with the chicken during the last few minutes of cooking, allowing them to soak up the delicious lemon flavor. Enjoy a vibrant, hearty meal in no time!

Cooking Tips for Lemon Chicken Recipe

Achieving the Perfect Crust

For that delicious, golden crust on your lemon chicken, begin by ensuring the chicken breasts are patted dry; this helps the egg and parmesan adhere better. Dredging the chicken in the parmesan mixture twice guarantees an even crust.

Heat your non-stick skillet adequately before adding the chicken to achieve that crispy exterior.
If cooking multiple pieces, avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can cause steaming instead of browning.

Ensuring Juicy Chicken

To maintain the juiciness of your lemon chicken, consider using a meat mallet to pound the chicken to an even thickness. This promotes even cooking, preventing some parts from drying out.

Invest in a reliable meat thermometer; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F.
Remember to let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking; this allows the juices to redistribute for maximum flavor.

With these tips, your lemon chicken with the BEST lemon butter sauce is sure to impress! For more cooking insights, check out Serious Eats for expert advice.

Serving suggestions for Lemon Chicken Recipe

Pairing your lemon chicken recipe with the right side dishes can elevate your meal to a new level. Here are some ideal accompaniments that enhance the bright flavors of the lemon butter sauce:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, these will soak up the delicious lemon sauce perfectly.
Steamed Asparagus: The slight crunch and freshness of asparagus complement the richness of the chicken well.
Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers and herbs adds a healthy touch.
Rice Pilaf: This subtly flavored rice dish can balance the citrusy notes of your chicken.

Mix and match these options for a wonderful dining experience! Don’t forget to check out more delicious recipes at Natasha's Kitchen for your next meal inspiration.

Time Details for Lemon Chicken Recipe

Preparation Time
Ready to whip up this delicious meal? The preparation time for the lemon chicken recipe is approximately 18 minutes. This gives you enough time to gather and prep your ingredients without feeling rushed.

Cooking Time
Once you're all set, the cooking time is a quick 12 minutes. You'll have perfectly cooked chicken with a golden crust and flavorful lemon butter sauce in no time.

Total Time
In total, from start to finish, you’ll spend about 30 minutes creating this delightful dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or a last-minute dinner gathering!

If you're looking for more quick recipes, don’t miss out on my other quick dishes that can be made in under an hour!

Nutritional Information for Lemon Chicken Recipe

When you're whipping up this Lemon Chicken Recipe, it's essential to know what you're serving up. Here's a quick breakdown of the nutrition per serving:

Calories

Each serving of this flavorful dish contains approximately 560 calories.

Protein

Get a good protein boost with 46 grams per serving, making it a satisfying choice for a fulfilling meal.

Fat

The lemon butter sauce contributes 38 grams of fat, giving it a rich, delicious flavor.

With this nutritional insight, you can enjoy your lemon chicken while keeping track of your intake! For more details on balanced meals, consider checking out Nutrition.gov or ChooseMyPlate.gov for healthy eating tips.

FAQs about Lemon Chicken Recipe

How do I make the sauce more tangy?

If you love a bolder citrus flavor, adding extra lemon juice is an easy fix. You can also incorporate zest from the lemon skin for an added punch. Just be sure to taste as you go to avoid overpowering the other flavors!

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can add a bit more moisture and richness to your dish. They may require a slightly longer cooking time, so just ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

What should I do if I don’t have parmesan cheese?

No worries! If you’re out of parmesan, a mix of asiago or pecorino cheese can work as a delightful alternative. Or, for a dairy-free option, try a nut or seed-based parmesan that can mimic that cheesy flavor.

If you have any more questions while preparing your lemon chicken, feel free to ask! We're here to help you enjoy this delightful dish to its fullest.

Conclusion on Lemon Chicken Recipe

This lemon chicken recipe with a sumptuous lemon butter sauce is a winner for any weeknight dinner. With its crispy parmesan coating and bright flavors, it's a dish your friends and family will love. Enjoy a deliciously refreshing meal that’s quick and easy to whip up—perfect for your busy lifestyle!