Description
A bright and zesty Italian Lemon Chicken recipe featuring tender boneless chicken breasts marinated in fresh lemon juice, garlic, and oregano, then pan-seared to golden perfection and finished with a luscious lemon-butter sauce. Perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 2 boneless chicken breasts
- 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, combine fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, 2 tablespoons olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk together well to create a tangy and herbaceous marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or a zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Allow to marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 1 hour in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
- 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 for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Make the Lemon Sauce: Pour the reserved marinade and chicken broth into the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly. Stir in the butter until melted and the sauce is glossy and well combined.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the chicken and serve immediately, enjoying the bright and savory flavors.
Notes
- Marinate the chicken for longer (up to 1 hour) to enhance the lemon flavor.
- Use gluten-free chicken broth if you require a gluten-free meal.
- Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
- You can substitute fresh parsley with basil or cilantro for a different flavor twist.
