Lemon chicken is a popular dish in many cuisines, particularly in Mediterranean and Chinese cooking. It typically consists of chicken pieces, usually boneless and skinless, that are marinated, coated, or cooked with lemon-based ingredients to impart a tangy and citrusy flavor.
In Mediterranean cuisine, lemon chicken often refers to a dish where chicken is marinated in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, herbs, and spices. The marinated chicken is then grilled, baked, or pan-fried until cooked through, resulting in a flavorful and juicy chicken with a hint of lemon.
Lemon Chicken
4
servings30
minutes25
minutesIn Chinese cuisine, lemon chicken is a sweet and sour dish. It involves coating chicken pieces with a batter, deep-frying them until crispy, and then tossing them in a tangy lemon sauce. The sauce is typically made with lemon juice, sugar, soy sauce, and sometimes includes additional ingredients like ginger or garlic to enhance the flavor.
The exact preparation and ingredients can vary depending on the specific recipe or regional variations. Lemon chicken is often served as a main course accompanied by rice, noodles, or vegetables, and it is known for its refreshing and zesty taste.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
3 lemons (juice and zest)
4 cloves of garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Directions
- In a bowl, combine the lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, olive oil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create the marinade.
- Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each breast is well coated. Cover the dish or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.
- Preheat your grill, oven, or stovetop pan to medium-high heat.
- If grilling: Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill the chicken breasts for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts.
If baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
If pan-frying: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of olive oil. Cook the chicken breasts for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through. - Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a serving platter and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Optionally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added freshness.