Lemon Chicken Recipe: Crispy, Zesty, and Delicious

If you’re looking for a dish that’s crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and bursting with fresh, tangy flavor, this Lemon Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a special weekend meal, it combines the rich taste of Parmesan-crusted chicken with a bright, buttery lemon sauce that’s irresistible. In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step of the recipe, share tips for achieving the perfect crust, and explain how to make the lemon butter sauce just right.

This recipe serves 4 people and is simple enough for home cooks of any skill level, but impressive enough to serve guests.

Ingredients Lemon Chicken

For the Parmesan-Crusted Chicken:

1 1/2 lb chicken breast (2 large), patted dry
1 Tbsp olive oil – for sautéing
1 Tbsp parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
1/2 lemon, sliced for garnish (optional)

For the Egg Mixture:

2 large eggs
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp ground black pepper

For the Parmesan Breading Mixture:

1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
3 Tbsp all-purpose flour

For the Lemon Butter Sauce:

8 Tbsp unsalted butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup lemon juice
1/4 cup chicken broth
1/4 tsp ground black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions Lemon Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by cutting the chicken breasts in half lengthwise. This ensures even cooking and helps achieve a tender interior. Lightly beat the chicken with a meat mallet until it is of even thickness. Uniform thickness allows the chicken to cook evenly, preventing dry edges or undercooked centers.

Step 2: Mix the Egg and Parmesan Mixtures

In a medium bowl, whisk together the ingredients for the egg mixture: eggs, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. In a separate bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese and flour to make the breading mixture.

Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, ensuring it is fully coated, then dredge it in the Parmesan mixture. Shake off any excess breading to avoid clumps that can burn during cooking.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat enough olive oil in a large non-stick skillet to cover the bottom. Once hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook 4-5 minutes per side until the crust is golden brown, crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165˚F (74°C) on an instant-read thermometer.

Tip: If the chicken browns too quickly, reduce the heat slightly to prevent burning while keeping the inside juicy.

Step 4: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

While the chicken cooks, prepare the sauce in a separate saucepan. Melt the butter over medium heat, then add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and black pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 2 minutes, letting the flavors meld together into a bright, buttery glaze.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Once the chicken is cooked, pour the lemon butter sauce over the breasts, ensuring they are fully coated. Garnish with lemon slices and finely chopped parsley for a fresh, colorful presentation. Serve immediately with your choice of sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.

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Why This Lemon Chicken Recipe Works

Juicy Chicken Breasts: Cutting the chicken in half and pounding it ensures that it cooks evenly, resulting in tender, juicy meat.
Crispy Parmesan Crust: The combination of Parmesan cheese and flour creates a flavorful, golden crust that locks in moisture.
Bright Lemon Flavor: Fresh lemon juice in the butter sauce adds a tangy brightness that balances the richness of the cheese and butter.
Simple Ingredients: No complicated techniques or exotic ingredients are required, making this recipe accessible for any home cook.

Tips for Perfect Lemon Chicken

Pat the chicken dry before breading. Moisture prevents the crust from sticking and browning properly.
Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F without overcooking.
Fresh lemon juice provides the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.
Adjust the sauce thickness by simmering a little longer if you prefer a thicker glaze, or adding a splash of chicken broth for a thinner consistency.

Serving Suggestions

This Lemon Chicken Recipe pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides:

Vegetables: Steamed asparagus, roasted broccoli, or sautéed green beans complement the tangy flavors.
Carbs: Serve with mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or buttery pasta to soak up the lemon butter sauce.
Salads: A crisp arugula or spinach salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.

Nutritional Information

Per Serving (1 Chicken Breast with Sauce):

Calories: 560 kcal
Protein: 46 g
Carbohydrates: 9 g
Fat: 38 g

This makes it a high-protein, low-carb meal that’s satisfying and flavorful.

Variations and Substitutions

Spicy Lemon Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter sauce for a subtle kick.
Herb-Crusted: Mix fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the Parmesan mixture for extra aroma.
Oven-Baked Version: For a lighter version, bake the breaded chicken at 400°F for 20-25 minutes until golden, then top with the lemon butter sauce.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free blend.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well. They’re slightly more forgiving and remain juicy, but you may need to adjust cooking time.

Q: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the lemon butter sauce in advance, but it’s best served warm over freshly cooked chicken for maximum flavor.

Q: How can I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or oven to maintain crispiness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Lemon Chicken Recipe is the perfect blend of comfort and elegance. The crispy Parmesan crust paired with zesty lemon butter creates a meal that’s both simple and sophisticated. It’s ideal for family dinners, date nights at home, or impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

With easy-to-follow steps, fresh ingredients, and vibrant flavors, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Final Thoughts Lemon Chicken

If you’ve been searching for a go-to lemon chicken recipe, this one checks all the boxes: crispy, juicy, tangy, and utterly delicious. Whether you’re a beginner cook or an experienced foodie, the combination of Parmesan crust and lemon butter sauce is foolproof and unforgettable.

Serve it with your favorite sides, sprinkle some parsley for color, and enjoy the perfect homemade, restaurant-quality meal any day of the week.

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