This simple lemon chicken recipe is a delightful combination of tangy and savory flavors. With only a handful of ingredients, you can prepare a mouthwatering dish that will please the whole family. The chicken is first marinated in a zesty lemon marinade to infuse it with vibrant citrus flavors. It is then quickly cooked to perfection, resulting in tender and juicy chicken with a refreshing lemony taste. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Serve with steamed vegetables and rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper.
- Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring all sides are coated. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a more intense flavor.
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off.
- Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If using a grill pan, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for garnish, if desired.
- Serve the simple lemon chicken with steamed vegetables and rice, or any side dish of your choice. Enjoy!
Interesting Facts
Lemons are not only a great source of Vitamin C, but they also add a burst of flavor to dishes.
Marinating the chicken in lemon juice helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with a tangy taste.
Grilling the chicken gives it a delicious smoky flavor, but you can also cook it in the oven or on the stovetop.
This recipe can easily be doubled or halved to accommodate your serving needs.
Leftover lemon chicken can be sliced and used in salads, wraps, or sandwiches for a tasty lunch option.