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Easy Lemon Chicken Recipe

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4 from 3 reviews

This easy lemon chicken recipe features tender, pan-seared chicken cutlets in a flavorful lemon butter sauce. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight meal that’s both quick and delicious, with zesty lemon and savory garlic enhancing every bite.

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt & pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Flour, for dredging

Sauce & Cooking

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons butter, divided
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • Zest of 1/2 lemon
  • Chopped fresh parsley (optional), to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken: Cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create thinner cutlets. Season them evenly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Lightly dredge each cutlet in flour to coat them thoroughly.
  2. Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. When the pan is hot, add the chicken cutlets and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden-brown crust. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
  3. Make the lemon sauce: In the same skillet, add chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, and the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Let the mixture simmer for a couple of minutes until it bubbles and slightly reduces.
  4. Finish cooking: Return the chicken cutlets to the skillet and cook for an additional few minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and the sauce to thicken further. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  5. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the chicken for a pop of color and fresh flavor, if desired. Serve immediately with your choice of sides.

Notes

  • For best results, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before cutting to ensure even cooking.
  • You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth or water in a pinch.
  • Serve this lemon chicken with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
  • To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend for dredging.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.