Are you tired of the same old boring weeknight dinners? Look no further! Lemon chicken breasts are a classic and delicious solution to your mealtime woes. The bright, citrusy flavor of lemon pairs perfectly with the rich taste of chicken, making for a dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
Whether you’re a busy professional or a family on-the-go, these 20 zesty lemon chicken breast recipes are sure to become new favorites. From classic baked and grilled options to creative twists like honey-glazed and pesto-crusted, we’ve got you covered with a range of flavors and cooking methods to suit every taste.
In this article, we’ll explore the magic of lemon chicken breasts in all their zesty glory. Get ready to add some sunshine to your meals with these mouthwatering recipes!
Garlic Butter Lemon Chicken Breast
A flavorful and aromatic twist on classic chicken breast, this Garlic Butter Lemon Chicken Breast recipe combines the pungency of garlic, the richness of butter, and the brightness of lemon for a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, butter, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over both sides of each breast.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway through cooking time.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Honey Lemon Grilled Chicken Breast
Elevate your grilled chicken game with this sweet and tangy recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. This Honey Lemon Grilled Chicken Breast is a flavorful and moist dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, lemon juice, and garlic.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Lemon Herb Baked Chicken Breast
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this bright and citrusy chicken breast recipe. A perfect blend of lemon zest, garlic, and herbs creates a flavorful and moist dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together lemon zest, garlic, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush the lemon-herb 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 (74°C).
5. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Crispy Lemon Pepper Chicken Breast
Add a burst of citrusy flavor to your meal with this simple recipe. Crispy lemon pepper chicken breast is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup lemon pepper seasoning
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together lemon pepper seasoning and breadcrumbs.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place the coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and squeeze lemon juice over the top of each breast.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Breast
A bright and citrusy twist on classic chicken parmesan, this recipe combines the flavors of lemon, garlic, and parmesan cheese for a deliciously tangy and savory dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together lemon juice, garlic, and breadcrumbs.
3. Dip each chicken breast into the lemon-garlic mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pan Lemon Rosemary Chicken Breast
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this flavorful and aromatic recipe that combines the brightness of lemon, the earthiness of rosemary, and the tenderness of chicken breast. This one-pan wonder is quick to prepare and requires minimal cleanup.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5 minutes on each side, or until browned.
4. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium and add the lemon juice, rosemary, and garlic. Cook for 1 minute, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
6. Return the chicken to the pan and spoon some of the lemon-herb mixture over each breast.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
8. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Dijon Grilled Chicken Breast
Brighten up your meal with this tangy and flavorful grilled chicken breast recipe, infused with the zesty goodness of lemon and dijon mustard. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 1/4 cup)
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes total
Lemon Basil Stuffed Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this refreshing and flavorful recipe! Lemon and basil work harmoniously to create a moist and aromatic stuffed chicken breast that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together basil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the basil mixture.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken and season with salt and pepper.
5. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Soy Glazed Chicken Breast
A refreshing twist on traditional chicken breasts, this recipe combines the brightness of lemon and the savory depth of soy for a dish that’s both elegant and easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, lemon juice, honey, and garlic.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Thyme Roasted Chicken Breast
Brighten up your dinner plate with this refreshing twist on roasted chicken breast. The tangy flavor of lemon and the subtle hint of thyme will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, and thyme.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and brush the lemon mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Season with salt and pepper as desired.
5. Roast the chicken for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Paprika Grilled Chicken Breast
Brighten up your mealtime with this zesty and flavorful dish! This recipe combines the citrusy taste of lemon, the smokiness of paprika, and the juiciness of grilled chicken breast.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, smoked paprika, and salt.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Butter Cream Sauce Chicken Breast
A bright and citrusy twist on classic chicken breast, this recipe combines the richness of butter and cream with the zesty flavor of lemon. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add heavy cream, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until sauce thickens slightly.
6. Serve chicken breasts with lemon butter cream sauce spooned over top. Garnish with parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Tarragon Chicken Breast Skillet
Brighten up your mealtime with this zesty and flavorful skillet dish featuring juicy chicken breast, tender tarragon, and a squeeze of lemon. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh tarragon
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large onion, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium. Add the chopped tarragon, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
6. Add the sliced onion to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until tender.
7. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon some of the tarragon-lemon mixture over each breast.
8. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Ginger Marinated Chicken Breast
Brighten up your dinner with this refreshing and flavorful lemon-ginger marinated chicken breast recipe. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and minced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, honey, ginger, garlic, and olive oil.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
3. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Caper Chicken Breast Piccata
A bright and citrusy twist on the classic Italian dish, this Lemon Caper Chicken Breast Piccata is a quick and flavorful meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Dredge chicken in flour, shaking off excess.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
6. Reduce heat to medium and add lemon juice, capers, and white wine (if using). Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Serve chicken breasts with the lemon-caper sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Yogurt Marinated Chicken Breast
Brighten up your mealtime with this refreshing and flavorful recipe that combines the zesty taste of lemon with the creaminess of yogurt, all wrapped up in a juicy chicken breast.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano until smooth.
2. Add chicken breasts to the marinade, making sure they are fully coated.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
5. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Servings: 4
Lemon Pesto Grilled Chicken Breast
Add a burst of citrusy flavor to your grilled chicken with this refreshing recipe. With the brightness of lemon and the richness of pesto, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly made or store-bought pesto
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, pesto, and garlic.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Lemon Balsamic Glazed Chicken Breast
Elevate your meal game with this sweet and tangy recipe that combines the brightness of lemon with the richness of balsamic glaze. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, balsamic glaze, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush the glaze mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Remove from oven and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Garlic Air Fryer Chicken Breast
Brighten up your mealtime with this zesty and flavorful air fryer chicken breast recipe, infused with the tanginess of lemon and the richness of garlic. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts in the air fryer basket. Brush both sides with the lemon-garlic mixture.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken.
5. Cook for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Coconut Curry Chicken Breast
Brighten up your dinner routine with this vibrant and aromatic dish that combines the tender flavor of chicken breast with the zesty warmth of lemon, coconut, and curry. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together coconut, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken breast into the coconut mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Heat oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and ginger; cook for 1 minute.
5. Add coated chicken breasts to the skillet; cook for 2-3 minutes on each side.
6. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
7. Remove from oven and brush with lemon juice and chicken broth.
8. Serve hot, garnished with toasted coconut flakes if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Looking for quick and delicious recipes to spice up your weeknights? Look no further! This collection of 20 zesty lemon chicken breast recipes is perfect for busy home cooks. From classic pairings like garlic butter and herbs, to bold flavors like soy glaze and paprika, there’s something for everyone. Try grilling with a squeeze of fresh lemon, or baking with a tangy honey and lemon glaze. These easy-to-make recipes are sure to become weeknight staples in your household.
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