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A prepared simple lemon chicken dinner with roasted vegetables

Simple Lemon Chicken Dinner

This simple lemon chicken dinner recipe is a quick and flavorful meal perfect for any weeknight. Juicy chicken thighs or breasts are pan-seared and then simmered in a bright lemon-garlic sauce.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4 people
Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

  • Paper towels
  • Large skillet
  • Foil

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • 2-3 lemons
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Pat chicken dry and season with salt and pepper. Zest and juice one lemon over the chicken, then marinate for 15-30 minutes at room temperature.

Cooking

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (165°F/74°C). Remove chicken and tent with foil.
  • Reduce heat to medium, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits, then squeeze in remaining lemon juice.
  • Simmer sauce for 2-3 minutes, then return chicken to the skillet, spooning sauce over it. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

For best results, allow the chicken to marinate for the full 30 minutes. You can adjust the amount of lemon juice in the sauce to your preference, adding more for a tangier flavor. Serve this dish with rice, pasta, or a fresh green salad.