If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with bright, fresh flavors yet incredibly easy to whip up, this Garlic Chicken with Lemon and Parsley Recipe is an absolute winner. Juicy chicken breasts soak in a dreamy sauce that blends zesty lemon, fragrant garlic, and vibrant parsley, creating a harmony of taste that feels like a comforting hug on a plate. Whether you’re cooking a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this recipe combines simple ingredients to deliver a meal that’s both elegant and satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Garlic Chicken with Lemon and Parsley Recipe lies in its simple ingredients, each contributing essential flavor and texture. From the bright zing of lemon to the richness of olive oil, every component is vital in making this dish truly sing.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Choose evenly sized pieces to ensure even cooking and tender juiciness.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a fruity depth and helps create a beautifully golden sear on the chicken.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is the heart of this recipe, infusing every bite with robust aroma and flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): A touch of heat to elevate the dish, but feel free to skip if you prefer mild flavors.
- 1/4 cup chicken broth: Provides a comforting base for the sauce, keeping the chicken moist and flavorful.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Brings a lively citrus brightness that balances the richness perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley: Adds fresh, herbaceous notes and vibrant green color to finish the dish.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that highlight and enhance all the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional for extra richness): Melted into the sauce for a silky, luxurious finish that feels indulgent.
How to Make Garlic Chicken with Lemon and Parsley Recipe
Step 1: Season Your Chicken
Start by generously seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple step builds a foundation of flavor that complements the bright, garlicky sauce perfectly.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6 to 7 minutes on each side. You’re aiming for a gorgeous golden-brown crust while ensuring the chicken cooks through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate to rest and keep those delicious juices locked in.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the same skillet. Stir constantly for about one minute until your kitchen fills with that irresistible garlicky fragrance. If you enjoy a bit of subtle spice, sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes here to awaken your taste buds.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and fresh lemon juice, scraping the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon to lift all those delicious browned bits. Let this simmer gently for two to three minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce and thicken slightly—this is where all the flavor intensifies.
Step 5: Add Parsley and Butter
Stir in the vibrant chopped parsley and butter if using, letting the butter melt and enrich the sauce with its silky texture. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to get it just right.
Step 6: Bring it All Together
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of that luscious garlic sauce over the top. Let them soak up the flavors for another two to three minutes, then serve hot with plenty of sauce drizzled generously on the plate. This step ensures every bite bursts with that perfect balance of lemony, garlicky goodness.
How to Serve Garlic Chicken with Lemon and Parsley Recipe
Garnishes
For an elegant touch, sprinkle extra fresh parsley over the top just before serving. A thin lemon wedge on the side invites everyone to add an extra zing if they like. These simple garnishes elevate the presentation and freshness of this fantastic dish.
Side Dishes
This Garlic Chicken with Lemon and Parsley Recipe shines alongside light, complementary sides like fluffy rice, garlic mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad. Steamed vegetables or roasted asparagus also pair beautifully to keep the meal balanced and colorful.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stylish presentation at your next dinner party, place the chicken breasts atop a bed of creamy polenta or alongside buttered noodles tossed with fresh herbs. Drizzle extra sauce around the plate and scatter small parsley leaves or lemon zest for a restaurant-worthy finish that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover garlic chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keeping the sauce and chicken together helps maintain moisture and flavor when you reheat.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked Garlic Chicken with Lemon and Parsley Recipe for up to two months. Place portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, making sure to remove as much air as possible. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep the texture tender and the flavors fresh.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if the sauce needs loosening. Avoid microwaving at high power to keep the chicken moist and preserve the delicate balance of lemon and garlic flavors.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more richness and stay juicy longer. Just adjust cooking time slightly, ensuring they reach 165°F internally for safety.
Is the crushed red pepper flakes necessary?
Not at all! The crushed red pepper flakes add a gentle heat, but the dish is delicious without them if you prefer milder flavors.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! All the ingredients used are naturally gluten-free, making this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive diners without any modification.
What can I substitute if I don’t have fresh parsley?
Dried parsley may be used in a pinch, but fresh parsley offers the best flavor and color. Alternatively, fresh cilantro or basil could create a different but lovely herbal note.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The safe and most reliable way is using a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). The chicken should also be firm, with clear juices running out when cut.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Chicken with Lemon and Parsley Recipe quickly becomes a favorite once you taste how fresh, zesty, and comforting it is. It’s effortless enough for any night of the week yet elegant enough to serve guests with pride. Give it a try soon—you might just find yourself making it again and again!
Print
Garlic Chicken with Lemon and Parsley Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Garlic Chicken recipe is a quick and flavorful dish featuring tender boneless, skinless chicken breasts cooked in a fragrant garlic, lemon, and parsley sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it combines simple ingredients with easy steps to deliver a savory and slightly tangy meal that pairs beautifully with your favorite sides.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional for extra richness)
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper to enhance flavor before cooking.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). Remove from skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Sauté the Garlic: Reduce heat to medium, add minced garlic to the same skillet, and cook for about 1 minute while stirring constantly until fragrant. Add crushed red pepper flakes if a bit of spice is desired.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in chicken broth and fresh lemon juice, scraping up browned bits from the pan bottom. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly and concentrate flavors.
- Add Fresh Parsley and Butter: Stir in chopped parsley and optional unsalted butter, allowing the butter to melt and enrich the sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Combine and Serve: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning garlic sauce over the top. Let the chicken soak in the sauce for another 2-3 minutes before serving, with extra sauce drizzled over the dish.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh garlic and parsley for a bright, fresh flavor.
- Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level or omit for a milder dish.
- Serving this chicken over rice, pasta, or with steamed vegetables complements the garlic lemon sauce beautifully.
- The optional butter adds richness but can be omitted to keep the dish lighter.
