How To Make Lemon Chicken: The Easiest Recipe You’ll Ever Try

Lemon chicken is a classic dish that combines the zesty freshness of lemon with the tender juiciness of chicken. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this guide will provide you with all the necessary instructions to create this delectable meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Step 1: Season and Dredge the Chicken

In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, and pepper. In a separate bowl, whisk together the lemon zest and juice. Dip the chicken pieces into the flour mixture, then into the lemon juice mixture. Shake off any excess coating.

Step 2: Pan-Fry the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 3: Create the Lemon Sauce

In a small saucepan, combine the chicken broth, honey, and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.

Step 4: Combine the Chicken and Sauce

Pour the lemon sauce over the cooked chicken in the skillet. Stir gently to combine and coat the chicken evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has heated through.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the lemon chicken. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as rice, pasta, or vegetables.

Tips for the Perfect Lemon Chicken

• Use fresh lemon: Fresh lemon zest and juice add a burst of flavor that enhances the dish.
• Don’t overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Cook it just until it’s cooked through.
• Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter lemon chicken, add more honey to taste.
• Experiment with herbs: Fresh thyme, oregano, or basil can add an extra layer of flavor.
• Don’t skip the sauce: The lemon sauce is what brings the dish together. Simmer it until it’s slightly thickened to create a flavorful coating for the chicken.

Variations on Lemon Chicken

• Lemon Chicken Stir-Fry: Stir-fry the chicken with vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers for a quick and healthy meal.
• Lemon Chicken Soup: Add the lemon chicken to a flavorful chicken broth with vegetables and noodles for a comforting and nourishing soup.
• Lemon Chicken Pasta: Toss the lemon chicken with your favorite pasta, vegetables, and a creamy lemon sauce for a delicious and satisfying dish.

Serving Suggestions

• Rice: White or brown rice is a classic pairing for lemon chicken.
• Pasta: Angel hair pasta, spaghetti, or linguine can be tossed with the lemon chicken and sauce.
• Vegetables: Roasted vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, or carrots complement the zesty flavors of the lemon chicken.

Final Touches

• Garnish with lemon wedges: Serve the lemon chicken with fresh lemon wedges for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
• Add a drizzle of olive oil: A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can enhance the richness and depth of the dish.
• Enjoy with a glass of white wine: A crisp glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, pairs perfectly with the lemon chicken.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.

Q: What can I do if I don’t have fresh lemon?
A: You can use bottled lemon juice, but the flavor will not be as intense.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the lemon chicken ahead of time and reheat it before serving. However, the sauce may thicken slightly upon reheating.