Ah, the simple joys of cooking—where a dash of creativity meets a spritz of lemon! Picture this: a kitchen filled with the zesty aroma of lemons mingling with the bold punch of garlic, a combo that never fails to awaken the senses and entice the palate. This easy lemon garlic chicken, my go-to for a quick dinner fix, is like the culinary equivalent of your favorite cozy sweater on a cool evening—dependable, warm, and unexpectedly heartening.
Steps
- Begin by melting butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place them in the skillet with melted butter and cook, flipping often, until browned for about 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of garlic powder on the chicken and cook for 2 minutes, then flip the chicken and sprinkle the remaining garlic powder on the other side. Cook for another 2 minutes.
- Pour lemon juice over each side of the chicken. Continue cooking until the chicken is no longer pink in the center, which should take an additional 5 to 10 minutes. Ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C) with an instant-read thermometer.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder, divided
- Juice of 1 lemon
Nutritional Values
Calories: 642 | Total Fat: 33g | Saturated Fat: 18g | Cholesterol: 255mg | Sodium: 3825mg | Total Carbohydrate: 15g | Dietary Fiber: 3g | Total Sugars: 3g | Protein: 75g | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 69mg | Iron: 3mg | Potassium: 813mg
FAQ
- Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
- Yes, you can substitute fresh garlic for garlic powder. Use about 2-3 cloves of minced garlic in place of each tablespoon of garlic powder. Add it to the pan when you first start cooking the chicken to let the flavors develop.
- How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
- The chicken is fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius). You can use an instant-read thermometer to check. Additionally, the chicken should no longer be pink in the center.
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
- Absolutely, chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts. They may require a slightly longer cooking time, so be sure to check that they reach the appropriate internal temperature.
- What can I serve with lemon garlic chicken?
- Lemon garlic chicken pairs well with a variety of sides. Some popular choices include a quinoa-asparagus salad, roasted vegetables, or a light pasta dish. A glass of Chardonnay also complements the meal nicely.
- Can I add more lemon flavor to the dish?
- Certainly! If you prefer a stronger lemon flavor, you can add lemon zest or slices of lemon during cooking. Additionally, finishing the dish with a splash of white wine, such as Chardonnay, can enhance the citrus notes.
Tips
- For a more pronounced lemon flavor, consider finishing the dish with additional lemon slices or a splash of white wine, like Chardonnay, to enhance the citrus notes.
- Cooking the chicken in a stainless steel pan can help achieve a better sear, resulting in a flavorful crust that enhances the overall taste.
- To ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly, use an instant-read thermometer; the internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C).
- Serve this dish with a light side, such as a quinoa-asparagus salad, to complement the lemony chicken and create a balanced meal.
Equipment
- Skillet (if a specific type like stainless steel is desired for better searing)
- Instant-read thermometer (for checking the chicken’s internal temperature)
