Lemon Garlic Chicken
Ingredients
- 2 lemons
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 5 large garlic cloves
crushed or minced
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes)
(optional
- 1/4 cup chopped Italian parsley
plus more for garnish
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts)
(about 4 large chicken breasts
- Kosher salt
- Black pepper
- Extra virgin olive oil
Directions
- 1
Make the marinade: Zest and juice one of the lemons into a large bowl (save the other lemon for later). To the bowl, add olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and parsley and whisk to combine. Set aside.
- 2
Slice the breasts into cutlets: Place the chicken breast flat on a cutting board and position your non-dominant hand on top to hold it firmly. Using a sharp knife in your dominant hand, carefully slice the chicken breast horizontally starting with the thicker end and all the way through to the thin end. You should end up with two thin cutlets for each chicken breast. If the cutlets still need to flatten a bit, cover with plastic wrap and pound with a kitchen mallet (optional).
- 3
Dry and season the chicken: Use a paper towel to pat the chicken dry. Season with a big pinch of kosher salt and black pepper on both sides. Add the chicken to the marinade and turn to coat. Cover the bowl and place in the fridge for 30 minutes and up to 2 hours.
- 4
Cook the chicken: In a large cast iron skillet set over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once the oil begins to shimmer, arrange the chicken pieces in the skillet. Do this in batches if you need to, as you do not want to crowd the pan. Sear for about 4 minutes on each side, or until both sides are golden brown and the chicken is nearly cooked through. (Its juices should run clear.)
- 5
Rest: When the internal temperature reaches 160°F, remove from the heat. Tent with foil and let the chicken rest for another 5 minutes. The chicken will come up to 165°F while it’s under the foil. There should be no pink on the inside. While it rests, slice the remaining lemon.
- 6
Garnish and serve: Garnish the chicken with chopped parsley and lemon slices. Serve.
Lemon Garlic Chicken
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About this Recipe
Craving chicken that's bursting with bright, savory flavors and perfectly juicy every time? This Lemon Garlic Chicken recipe delivers on all fronts, transforming simple chicken breasts into a versatile star for any meal.
Why This Lemon Garlic Chicken Works
The secret to truly tender and juicy chicken lies in its flavorful marinade. This recipe leverages a potent blend of fresh lemon, abundant garlic, and aromatic Italian seasoning. Giving the chicken at least 30 minutes to soak up these ingredients ensures that every bite is infused with a deep, herbaceous zing.
What makes this chicken special are the few simple tricks designed to keep the lean meat from drying out during cooking. These techniques, combined with the power of the marinade, guarantee chicken breasts that remain incredibly moist, never rubbery.
What to Expect
Prepare for a delightful sensory experience. You'll savor chicken breasts that are incredibly tender and moist, with a vibrant, zesty aroma that fills your kitchen. The pronounced flavors of fresh lemon and pungent garlic are perfectly balanced by the savory Italian seasoning, creating a dish that feels both comforting and exhilarating. The optional red pepper flakes add a subtle warmth, inviting a gentle kick without overwhelming the palate. This lean, protein-packed chicken is a fantastic base for countless meals.
Customization & Variations
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable to your pantry and preferences. While the core lemon-garlic flavor is outstanding, feel free to adjust the red pepper flakes to your desired spice level—omit them entirely for a milder dish or add a touch more for extra heat. For an even more intense herbal note, consider adding a pinch of dried oregano or basil alongside the Italian seasoning. You can also experiment with different fresh herbs for garnish, such as fresh thyme or dill.
Serving & Context
This Lemon Garlic Chicken is an incredibly versatile protein, making it ideal for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners. Slice it for vibrant salads, tuck it into hearty sandwiches, or pile it atop fluffy rice bowls for a complete and satisfying meal. A sprinkle of fresh parsley before serving adds a beautiful, fresh finish.