Simple & Flavorful Recipe
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There’s something magical about the combination of bright, zesty lemons and aromatic garlic that transforms an ordinary chicken dish into something extraordinary. This Mediterranean Lemon Garlic Chicken recipe has become my family’s go-to dinner choice, and for good reason! The tender, juicy chicken breasts are bathed in a vibrant sauce that perfectly balances citrusy notes with rich garlic and herbs. What I love most about this recipe is how it brings the sunny flavors of the Mediterranean right to your dinner table, even on the busiest weeknights.
Did you know that this cooking technique of combining citrus with poultry dates back to ancient Roman times? They knew what they were doing! Just like my popular Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe that many of you have come to love, this dish captures the essence of Mediterranean cooking – simple, fresh ingredients that create bold, unforgettable flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe promises restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. Trust me, once you try this Lemon Garlic Chicken, it’ll become a permanent addition to your recipe collection!
What is Mediterranean Lemon Garlic Chicken?
Ever wondered what happens when you take succulent chicken breasts and give them a Mediterranean vacation? That’s exactly what this Lemon Garlic Chicken is all about! This dish is the perfect marriage of bright Mediterranean flavors and classic comfort food. You know what they say – the way to a person’s heart is through their stomach, and this recipe has been winning hearts in my household for years. It’s amazing how a handful of simple ingredients like fresh lemons, aromatic garlic, and fragrant herbs can transform ordinary chicken into something that tastes like it came straight from a seaside taverna in Greece. Ready to transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean? Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Garlic Chicken
This recipe is a game-changer for so many reasons! First, the star of the show is undoubtedly the sauce – it’s silky, bright, and packed with flavor that seeps into every bite of chicken. The combination of fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and Mediterranean herbs creates a sauce so good, you’ll want to drizzle it over everything.
Making this at home is not only budget-friendly but also allows you to control the quality of ingredients. While a similar dish at a restaurant might cost $20-25 per plate, you can make this for your entire family for roughly the same price. Plus, the ingredients are readily available at any grocery store.
The magic lies in the layering of flavors – from the initial sear that creates a golden crust on the chicken to the final touch of fresh herbs. Just like my Mediterranean Grilled Chicken recipe, this dish proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary meals. Give it a try tonight – your taste buds will thank you!
How to Make Mediterranean Lemon Garlic Chicken
Quick Overview
This crowd-pleasing dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The chicken turns out incredibly tender and juicy, while the sauce achieves the perfect balance of lemony brightness and rich, garlicky flavor. Even kitchen novices will find this recipe approachable and rewarding.
Key Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 fresh lemons (juice and zest)
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove to a plate and tent with foil.
- In the same pan, reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add white wine (if using) and scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Add chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, and thyme. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Stir in butter until melted and sauce is slightly thickened. Return chicken to the pan and spoon sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley.
What to Serve with Lemon Garlic Chicken
This versatile dish pairs beautifully with various sides:
- Fluffy rice or orzo pasta to soak up the delicious sauce
- Roasted Mediterranean vegetables
- Greek salad
- Crusty bread for sauce-mopping
- Steamed asparagus or broccoli
Top Tips for Perfecting Lemon Garlic Chicken
- Don’t skip patting the chicken dry – this ensures a beautiful golden crust
- Use fresh lemons rather than bottled juice for the best flavor
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy
- Adjust garlic amount to your taste – the recipe is forgiving
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for 2-4 hours before cooking
Storing and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a covered skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through. The dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months – perfect for meal prep!
Recipe Schema Markup
- Preparation Time: PT10M
- Cooking Time: PT20M
- Total Time: PT30M
- Type of recipe: Main Course
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Keywords: lemon chicken, garlic chicken, Mediterranean chicken, healthy dinner, quick dinner, weeknight meal
- Recipe Yield: 4 servings
- Calories: 385 per serving
Pros
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Uses common pantry ingredients
- Healthy and protein-rich
- Versatile – pairs with many side dishes
- Perfect for meal prep
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Chicken can dry out if overcooked
- Fresh lemons required for best results
- May need adjusting for garlic sensitivity