Lemon chicken – is there anything more divine? I mean, what’s not to love? The tangy zip of lemon, the juicy tenderness of chicken, and the versatility to make it in a million different ways. As a self-proclaimed foodie, I just can’t get enough of this dish. So, if you’re like me and obsessed with all things lemon chicken, you’re in luck because today we’re counting down the top 5 ways to make this culinary masterpiece: grilled, baked, fried, roasted, and a special bonus recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation.
Grilled Lemon Chicken
This recipe rocks because it’s perfect for those warm summer nights when you want to fire up the grill and impress your friends with a dish that’s both easy and elegant. Lemon juice and olive oil are the stars of the show here, adding a bright, citrusy flavor that complements the charred, smoky taste of the grilled chicken.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and thyme.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish and brush the lemon mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Why You’ll Love It
You’ll love this recipe because it’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. The lemon juice adds a nice acidity that cuts through the richness of the chicken, while the garlic and thyme add a depth of flavor that’s just amazing. Plus, it’s a great way to get your daily dose of vitamin C – just kidding, but it’s definitely a healthyish option!
Baked Lemon Chicken
This recipe is a game-changer because it’s so easy to make and requires minimal cleanup. Chinese lemon chicken lovers will adore this version, which uses a mixture of lemon juice, soy sauce, and honey to create a sticky, sweet, and sour glaze that’s absolutely addictive.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp grated ginger
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, soy sauce, honey, and ginger.
3. Place the chicken thighs in a shallow baking dish and brush the lemon mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
5. While the chicken is baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together the remaining lemon mixture and 1 tbsp of cornstarch.
6. After 20 minutes of baking, brush the glaze over the chicken and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Why You’ll Love It
You’ll love this recipe because it’s a fun twist on traditional creamy lemon chicken. The soy sauce and ginger add a nice umami flavor that complements the brightness of the lemon, while the honey provides a touch of sweetness. It’s a great option for meal prep, too – just bake a big batch and portion it out for the week.
Fried Lemon Chicken
Okay, I know what you’re thinking – fried chicken can be a bit of a calorie bomb. But trust me, this recipe is worth it. Chicken thighs are the way to go here, as they stay juicy and tender even when fried. And let’s be real, who doesn’t love a good fried chicken?
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken thighs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup buttermilk
- Vegetable oil for frying
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Pour the buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken thigh into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Why You’ll Love It
You’ll love this recipe because it’s a fun twist on traditional fried chicken. The lemon juice adds a nice brightness to the dish, while the buttermilk helps to keep the chicken tender and juicy. It’s a great option for a special occasion or a fun night in with friends.
Roasted Lemon Chicken
This recipe is a staple in my household, and for good reason – it’s easy, delicious, and perfect for a weeknight dinner. Lemon chicken and roasted veggies are a match made in heaven, and this recipe is a great way to get your daily dose of vitamins and minerals.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken breasts
- 2 lemons, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, thyme, and garlic powder.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush the lemon mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
5. While the chicken is roasting, toss your favorite veggies (I like to use Brussels sprouts and carrots) with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper, and spread on a baking sheet.
6. Roast the veggies in the oven for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
Why You’ll Love It
You’ll love this recipe because it’s a great way to get your daily dose of veggies and protein. The lemon adds a nice brightness to the dish, while the thyme and garlic powder add a depth of flavor that’s just amazing. It’s a great option for meal prep, too – just roast a big batch and portion it out for the week.
Bonus Recipe: Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta
This recipe is a fun twist on traditional lemon chicken, and it’s perfect for a quick and easy dinner. Creamy lemon sauce is the star of the show here, and it’s made with just a few simple ingredients – lemon juice, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
- 1 lb pasta of your choice
- 2 lbs chicken breasts
- 2 lemons, juiced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to the package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat.
3. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through.
4. While the chicken is cooking, whisk together lemon juice, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese in a small bowl.
5. Add the creamy lemon sauce to the skillet with the chicken and stir to combine.
6. Serve the chicken and sauce over cooked pasta and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love It
You’ll love this recipe because it’s a fun twist on traditional chicken thighs. The lemon juice adds a nice brightness to the dish, while the heavy cream and parmesan cheese add a richness and creaminess that’s just amazing. It’s a great option for a quick and easy dinner – just cook the pasta, make the sauce, and serve!
In conclusion, these 5 recipes (plus the bonus recipe, of course!) are sure to become staples in your dinner rotation. Whether you’re in the mood for something grilled, baked, fried, roasted, or creamy, there’s a lemon chicken recipe on this list that’s sure to hit the spot. So go ahead, get creative, and start cooking – your taste buds will thank you! And remember, the best part about lemon chicken is that it’s incredibly versatile – so don’t be afraid to experiment and come up with your own unique recipes. Happy cooking, friends!
