This lemon chicken recipe is bright, buttery, and surprisingly easy to make. With its light, tangy sauce and crisp golden chicken, it’s one of those dishes that feels a little special without requiring much effort.
It’s the kind of meal I turn to on days when I don’t feel like cooking but still want something homemade and comforting. Simple ingredients, quick steps, and a result that always feels satisfying. This easy lemon chicken recipe is perfect for busy days as well.
What is Lemon Chicken?
Lemon chicken is a simple dish made with pan-fried chicken and a light lemon butter sauce. It’s known for its balance of tangy and savory flavors, often paired with rice or vegetables for an easy, complete meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we get into the full recipe card, here’s a quick look at what you’ll need:
- Boneless chicken breast or thighs
- Fresh lemon juice
- Butter and garlic
- Chicken broth
- A light breading (flour, cornstarch, egg)
These are all simple pantry-friendly ingredients that come together beautifully.
How to Make this Lemon Chicken Recipe
Here’s a quick overview of the process:
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper
- Coat lightly using flour, cornstarch, and egg
- Pan-fry until golden and cooked through
- Prepare a simple lemon butter sauce with garlic and broth
- Return the chicken to the pan and let it absorb the sauce
👉 This step-by-step helps you see the flow before diving into the full recipe below.
Tips for Best Lemon Chicken
- Use fresh lemon juice for a brighter flavor
- Do not overcrowd the pan — this helps the chicken stay crisp
- Adjust the tanginess by adding more or less lemon to taste
- Let the sauce simmer briefly to bring everything together
Recipe for Easy Lemon Chicken
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Easy Lemon Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main dish
- Method: cooking
- Cuisine: International
Description
This lemon chicken recipe is versatile, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make, perfect for family dinners or entertaining friends. The zesty lemon and crispy breading come together in a way that is comforting making it a dish everyone can enjoy.
Ingredients
- 2–3 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts or boneless chicken thighs (about 300g)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon sugar
For breading
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 egg
1 tsp roasted sesame seeds for garnishing
Chopped fresh greens (parsley or young onion) for garnishing – optional
Instructions
- Cut chicken breasts into 2-3 inch pieces. Sprinkle chicken with salt (optional). Set aside.
- Mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, flour and cornflour. Set aside
- Beat eggs. Set aside.
- Dip chicken pieces in flour mixture, then in eggwash. Dip/roll in flour mixture another time. Make sure they are coated well.
- Over medium-high heat, add olive oil and half the butter to a skillet. Add the coated chicken pieces and cook them until golden, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Mix chicken broth, the remaining butter, sugar, and lemon juice in a bowl.
- Reduce heat to medium. Using the same skillet, add the chicken broth mixture and heat them until they bubble.
- Add the chicken to the mixture and cook for two minutes.
- Transfer onto a serving plate and garnish with sesame seeds, and fresh parsley or young onion, if using.
Frequently-Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
Yes, chicken thighs work very well and tend to be juicier.
Can I make this without breading?
Yes, you can skip the breading for a lighter version. Just season and pan-sear the chicken.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
What to Serve with Lemon Chicken
This lemon chicken recipe is one of those reliable, go-to meals that you can make anytime. It’s simple, flexible, and always delivers on flavor.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or just putting something together quickly for yourself, this is a dish that makes everyday cooking feel just a little more special.
Other Feastful Recipes you would enjoy:
Garlic and Butter Shrimp
Ginger and Turmeric Chicken
Ground Beef Casserole
