Zesty Tasty Healthy Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe

Make a perfect weeknight dinner with Lemon Garlic Chicken, featuring juicy chicken, zesty lemons, and robust garlic in a quick 25-minute recipe.
Lemon Garlic Chicken
Lemon Garlic Chicken combines the bright, tangy notes of lemon and the aromatic warmth of garlic, enveloping tender chicken breasts in a scrumptious sauce. Beyond its convenience, it is low-carb, keto-friendly, and gluten-free, catering to various dietary preferences. Ideal for health-conscious diners or anyone in search of a satisfying meal, this recipe ensures a delicious dinner that’s both nutritious and easy to prepare. It pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, offering flexibility for a well-rounded meal.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter * divided
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 4 cloves garlic * minced
- 1 shallot * minced
- 1 cup chicken stock
- 1 tablespoon fresh squeezed lemon juice
- zest from one lemon
- 2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup parsley * minced
- lemon slices * optional
Instructions
- Melt 1 tablespoon of the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season both sides of the chicken with the salt and pepper and add to the skillet.
- Cook for 4-6 minutes until golden brown, then flip and cook an additional 4-5 minutes or until cooked through and no longer pink in the center. See notes for how to finish larger chicken breasts in the oven.
- Remove the chicken and place on a plate. Tent with foil to keep warm.
- Add the remaining butter to the skillet.
- Once melted, add the garlic and shallots and cook for 1-2 minutes until translucent, scraping up any brown bits.
- Pour in the chicken stock, lemon juice, lemon zest, and heavy whipping cream.
- Bring to a boil until reduced by half and thickened, about 2 minutes, then reduce heat to simmer.
- Place the chicken back in the pan to warm, spooning the lemon garlic sauce over it.
- Garnish with the parsley and lemon slices, if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Rice
- Orzo pasta
- Mashed potatoes
- Broccoli
- Asparagus
- Brussels sproutsServing Suggestions
- Rice
- Orzo pasta
- Mashed potatoes
- Broccoli
- Asparagus
- Brussels sprouts
Tips and Tricks
- Ensure chicken breasts are smaller or thinner for quick, even cooking. Thick pieces may need to be finished in the oven.
- Chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F. If larger breasts are used, they may need to be finished in a preheated oven at 350°F until fully cooked.
- You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts; adjust cooking time according to their thickness.