Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that's as simple as it is sensational? Say hello to Easy Lemon Garlic Chicken! This Italian-inspired recipe is not just a feast for the taste buds; it's a quick and effortless way to impress your family or guests with minimal fuss. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up juicy chicken breasts infused with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic, creating a delightful symphony of flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Trust us, this is one recipe you won't want to miss!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure even cooking and better browning.
- Season the chicken breasts generously on both sides with salt, pepper, and dried oregano, making sure to evenly distribute the seasonings.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until the oil is shimmering and hot but not smoking.
- Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts into the hot skillet, allowing them to cook undisturbed for 5-6 minutes until a golden-brown crust forms on the bottom.
- Flip the chicken breasts and add minced garlic to the pan, stirring quickly to prevent the garlic from burning.
- Continue cooking the chicken for an additional 5-6 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken during the last minute of cooking, allowing the juice to create a flavorful pan sauce.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 3-5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot, optionally drizzling any remaining pan juices over the chicken.
Tips
- Prep for Success: Before you start cooking, pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This simple step helps achieve a beautifully browned crust, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the seasoning! Generously season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. This ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.
- Get the Oil Hot: Make sure your olive oil is shimmering and hot before adding the chicken. This helps create that coveted golden-brown crust and prevents sticking.
- Don’t Rush the Flip: Let the chicken cook undisturbed for the first 5-6 minutes. This allows the crust to form perfectly before flipping.
- Watch the Garlic: When adding minced garlic, stir it quickly to prevent burning. Burnt garlic can turn bitter, so keep an eye on it!
- Check the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This guarantees juicy, perfectly cooked chicken every time.
- Rest for Juiciness: Allow the chicken to rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, making every bite tender and flavorful.
- Garnish for Flair: Finish off your dish with freshly chopped parsley and a drizzle of pan juices. It not only adds color but also enhances the overall flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 110mg
