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Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe

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4.3 from 8 reviews

A flavorful and zesty Lemon Garlic Chicken recipe featuring tender chicken cutlets marinated in a bright lemon, garlic, and herb mixture, then perfectly seared in a skillet to golden brown. This easy stovetop dish is quick to prepare and ideal for a delicious weeknight dinner with fresh parsley and lemon garnishes.

  • Total Time: 48 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Marinade 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

Main Ingredients

  • 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 4 large breasts)
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Extra virgin olive oil, for cooking (2 tablespoons)

Instructions

  1. Make the marinade: Zest and juice one lemon into a large bowl. Add olive oil, crushed garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and chopped parsley. Whisk together until combined and set aside.
  2. Slice the chicken breasts into cutlets: Place each chicken breast flat on a cutting board. Carefully slice horizontally to create two thin cutlets from each breast. If needed, cover with plastic wrap and gently pound with a mallet to even thickness.
  3. Dry and season the chicken: Pat the chicken cutlets dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with kosher salt and black pepper. Add the chicken cutlets to the marinade and turn to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes up to 2 hours.
  4. Cook the chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Arrange the chicken cutlets in a single layer, cooking in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Sear each side for about 4 minutes until golden brown and cooked through, with clear juices.
  5. Rest the chicken: Remove chicken when internal temperature reaches 160°F. Tent with foil and let rest for 5 minutes; the temperature will rise to 165°F. Ensure no pink remains inside. Meanwhile, slice the remaining lemon for garnish.
  6. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle additional chopped parsley over the chicken and add lemon slices. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • For even cooking, slice chicken breasts carefully to create uniform cutlets.
  • Pounding cutlets to an even thickness ensures tenderness and quick cooking.
  • Marinate up to 2 hours for enhanced flavor; avoid longer to prevent texture changes.
  • Do not overcrowd the skillet to allow proper searing and browning.
  • Use a meat thermometer to confirm chicken is fully cooked for safety.
  • For a spicier kick, increase red pepper flakes to taste.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American