Quick Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe: 10 Min

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Introduction

Weeknight dinners can often feel like a race against time. Between work, family, and everything else life throws at you, getting a nutritious and flavorful meal on the table in under 30 minutes can be a challenge. That’s where quick lemon garlic chicken comes in. This recipe is a go-to for busy nights when you want something quick, healthy, and packed with flavor. With just a few simple ingredients like chicken, fresh garlic, and tangy lemon, this dish will become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation. Let’s dive into how to make this easy, savory meal in just 10 minutes.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (find fresh chicken at Amazon Fresh)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh if preferred)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
• A skillet for the perfect sear

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the chicken

Start by preparing the chicken breasts. If they’re particularly thick, you can slice them in half horizontally to make them cook faster and more evenly. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels, then season both sides with salt, pepper, and dried thyme.

Step 2: Heat the skillet

Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Let it heat up for a minute or so until it’s shimmering, but not smoking. A well-heated pan is key to getting a golden-brown sear on your chicken.

Step 3: Cook the chicken

Add the chicken breasts to the hot skillet. Cook for 4–5 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden and cooked through (an internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Step 4: Prepare the lemon garlic sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the pan, stirring it for about 30 seconds until fragrant (be careful not to burn the garlic). Pour in the lemon juice and add the lemon zest, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds flavor to your sauce! Let the sauce simmer for another 1-2 minutes.

Step 5: Combine the chicken with the sauce

Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon some of the sauce over the top. Let them cook for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld together. If the sauce looks too thick, you can add a small splash of water or chicken broth to thin it out.

Step 6: Serve

Once the chicken is fully coated in the flavorful lemon garlic sauce, remove it from the heat and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color, and enjoy!

Variation Tips

1. Add vegetables: For a complete one-pan meal, you can add vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or spinach to the skillet. Simply add them after removing the chicken and sauté them in the same pan with the garlic and lemon sauce.
2. Use chicken thighs: If you prefer darker meat, swap the chicken breasts for skinless, boneless chicken thighs. They have a bit more fat and flavor, and will still cook quickly.
3. Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the sauce for a little heat. The combination of lemon, garlic, and spice creates a delicious contrast.
4. Make it creamy: Stir in a few tablespoons of heavy cream or coconut cream to the sauce for a richer, creamy version of this dish. The creaminess will balance the acidity of the lemon beautifully.
5. Serve with sides: This dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Serve it over a bed of rice, quinoa, or couscous, or enjoy it alongside a fresh salad or roasted potatoes for a balanced meal.

Nutritional Information (approximate per serving)

• Calories: 300–350
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbs: 5g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g

This quick lemon garlic chicken recipe is low in carbs, making it an excellent choice for those following a low-carb or keto diet. It’s also high in protein, making it a filling and satisfying option for a healthy weeknight dinner.

Conclusion

With its fresh, zesty lemon flavor and savory garlic, this quick lemon garlic chicken recipe is everything you need for a busy weeknight meal. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and can be customized with a variety of ingredients to fit your preferences. Whether you’re following a specific diet or just looking for something quick and tasty, this dish has got you covered.

So, next time you’re pressed for time but still want a delicious meal, try this quick lemon garlic chicken recipe. You won’t be disappointed!

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