What To Know
- In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the step-by-step process of creating a mouthwatering lemon chicken breast that will impress your family and friends.
- Bake the chicken breasts in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal or an elegant dinner party entrée, lemon chicken breast is a dish that will always impress.
Lemon chicken breast is a classic dish that tantalizes taste buds with its vibrant flavors and tender texture. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or an aspiring home cook, mastering this culinary delight is a rewarding endeavor. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the step-by-step process of creating a mouthwatering lemon chicken breast that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
2. Brown the Chicken
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken and cook until golden brown on all sides.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics
- Add the garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
- Stir in the lemon zest and oregano.
4. Deglaze the Pan
- Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Return the Chicken
- Add the chicken back to the skillet.
- Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Create the Lemon Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water.
- Stir this mixture into the skillet and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
7. Finish the Dish
- Stir in the lemon juice.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Serve the lemon chicken breast over rice, pasta, or your favorite side dish.
Tips for Success:
- Use fresh lemon: Fresh lemon zest and juice add a vibrant flavor to the dish.
- Don’t overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken will be tough and dry. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Adjust seasonings to taste: Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust the seasonings to suit your preferences.
- Serve immediately: Lemon chicken breast is best served hot and fresh.
Variations:
- Grilled lemon chicken breast: Grill the chicken breasts on an outdoor grill for a smoky flavor.
- Baked lemon chicken breast: Bake the chicken breasts in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Creamy lemon chicken breast: Add 1/2 cup of heavy cream to the sauce for a richer flavor.
Pairing Suggestions:
- Rice: Serve the lemon chicken breast over a bed of fluffy white rice.
- Pasta: Pair the chicken with a light pasta dish, such as angel hair or penne.
- Vegetables: Roast or steam some vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, or asparagus, to accompany the dish.
Nutritional Information:
A serving of lemon chicken breast (4 ounces) contains approximately:
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 30 grams
- Fat: 10 grams
- Carbohydrates: 15 grams
The Enduring Appeal of Lemon Chicken Breast
Lemon chicken breast has stood the test of time for good reason. Its bright and tangy flavors, combined with its tender texture, make it a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in countless ways. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal or an elegant dinner party entrée, lemon chicken breast is a dish that will always impress.
Questions You May Have
- Can I use frozen chicken breasts? Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. However, be sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
- Can I add other ingredients to the dish? Yes, you can add other ingredients, such as capers, olives, or artichoke hearts.
- How can I make the sauce thicker? Add more cornstarch to the sauce.
- How can I make the sauce thinner? Add more chicken broth to the sauce.
- Can I make the dish ahead of time? Yes, you can make the lemon chicken breast ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
- What other sauces can I use with the chicken? You can use a variety of sauces, such as a white wine sauce, a tomato sauce, or a creamy mushroom sauce.
- What side dishes go well with lemon chicken breast? Rice, pasta, or vegetables are all great side dishes to serve with lemon chicken breast.
- Can I make this dish in a slow cooker? Yes, you can make lemon chicken breast in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.
