Lemon Chicken Recipes: 15 Bright & Zesty Dinners to Try

Lemon chicken is a delightful dish that combines the bright, zesty flavor of lemons with tender chicken. It’s a versatile ingredient that can be used in many different recipes, making it a favorite for weeknight dinners. In this article, we will explore 15 delicious lemon chicken recipes that are easy to prepare and sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you prefer creamy sauces, grilled options, or roasted dishes, there’s a lemon chicken recipe for everyone!

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Key Takeaways

• Lemon chicken recipes are quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights.
• The bright flavor of lemon enhances the taste of chicken, making it more enjoyable.
• These recipes can be paired with various sides like pasta, rice, or vegetables.
• Lemon chicken is a versatile dish that can be prepared in many ways, including grilling, baking, or frying.
• Using fresh lemon juice and zest can elevate the flavor of your chicken dishes.

1. Easy Lemon Chicken

This lemon chicken recipe is one of the best—and easiest—ways to prepare chicken! It’s big on lemon flavor, and the chicken is moist and tender. In just 20 minutes, you can have a delicious dinner ready for your family.

Ingredients

• 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• Flour for dredging
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 tablespoons butter (divided)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice + zest of 1/2 lemon
• Chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

1. Cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create thinner cutlets. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, then dredge in flour.
2. Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden.
3. Remove the chicken and add chicken broth, lemon juice, and remaining butter to the pan. Let it bubble for a couple of minutes.
4. Return the chicken to the pan and cook until done, seasoning with salt and pepper. Sprinkle with parsley before serving.

This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet flavorful.

Tips

• Cutting the chicken into smaller pieces helps it cook faster and more evenly.
• Serve with rice, pasta, or your favorite veggies for a complete meal.

2. Creamy Lemon Chicken

Creamy Lemon Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken thighs with a rich lemon sauce. This recipe is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

To prepare this dish, you will need:

• 1.5 to 2 lbs of boneless chicken thighs (about 6 pieces)
• ½ cup of flour for breading
• 2 lemons (zested and juiced)
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• ¼ teaspoon of salt
• ½ teaspoon of black pepper
• ¼ cup of butter
• ½ cup of chicken broth
• ½ cup of whole milk

Cooking Steps

1. Trim excess fat from the chicken thighs.
2. In a shallow bowl, mix flour with thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir in half of the lemon zest.
3. Dredge the chicken thighs in the flour mixture, ensuring both sides are coated.
4. Heat butter in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned.
5. Remove the chicken and in the same pan, combine chicken broth, milk, lemon juice, and the remaining lemon zest. Boil until reduced by half.
6. Return the chicken to the pan, coating it in the creamy lemon sauce.

This dish is best served over rice, pasta, or with a side of vegetables for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

• Always use fresh lemons for the best flavor.
• Check your spices to ensure they are fresh and flavorful.
• Garnish with fresh herbs or lemon slices for added color and taste.

Enjoy this zesty and creamy dish that will surely become a family favorite!

3. Lemon-Pepper Chicken

Lemon-pepper chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings a zesty twist to your dinner table. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients

• 4 boneless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons lemon-pepper seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Fresh lemon slices for garnish

Instructions

1. Season the chicken: Rub the lemon-pepper seasoning all over the chicken breasts.
2. Heat the oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat.
3. Cook the chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
4. Serve: Garnish with fresh lemon slices and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Lemon-Pepper Chicken

• Use fresh lemon juice for a brighter flavor.
• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
• Pair with sides like rice, steamed veggies, or a fresh salad.

This dish is not only quick to prepare but also a great way to impress your guests with its vibrant flavors.

Variations to Try

• Honey Garlic Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs: Add honey and garlic for a sweet twist.
• Lemon-Pepper Grilled Chicken: Marinate the chicken in lemon-pepper seasoning and grill for a smoky flavor.
• Lemon-Pepper Chicken Wings: Perfect for game day, toss wings in lemon-pepper seasoning and bake until crispy.

Enjoy this bright and zesty dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!

4. Lemon Chicken and Veggie Pasta

This dish is a delightful mix of flavors and textures. The combination of lemon and chicken makes every bite refreshing! You can easily whip this up for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless chicken breasts, cut into pieces
• 8 oz pasta of your choice
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until tender.
4. Stir in the lemon juice and zest, then mix in the cooked pasta. Season with salt and pepper.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with grated parmesan cheese on top.
• Pair with a side salad for a complete meal.
• Enjoy with garlic bread for extra flavor.

This lemon chicken and veggie pasta is not just tasty; it’s also a great way to get your veggies in!

5. Lemon-Pepper Chicken Wings

Lemon-pepper chicken wings are a delicious and easy snack that everyone loves! These wings are perfect for game day or any gathering. Here’s how to make them:

Ingredients

• 3 lbs chicken wings (flats and drumettes)
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup lemon pepper seasoning
• 2 tsp baking powder (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix the chicken wings with olive oil and baking powder if using. This helps them get extra crispy!
3. Sprinkle the lemon pepper seasoning over the wings and toss until they are well coated.
4. Place the wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.

Tips for Perfect Wings

• Use fresh lemon juice for a brighter flavor.
• Adjust the amount of lemon pepper seasoning to your taste.
• For extra crispiness, broil the wings for the last 5 minutes of cooking.

These wings are a great way to enjoy a classic flavor combination. The zesty lemon and spicy pepper make every bite exciting!

6. Lemon-Roasted Chicken

Lemon-roasted chicken is a delightful dish that brings together the zesty flavors of lemon and garlic. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients

• 1 (4 to 5-lb.) whole chicken, patted dry
• 2 large lemons, divided
• 1 garlic head, halved crosswise
• 2 tsp. kosher salt, divided
• 1 tsp. black pepper
• 2 tbsp. olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rub the chicken inside and out with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the chicken and place the squeezed lemon halves inside the cavity along with the garlic.
4. Roast the chicken in the oven for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.

Tips for Perfect Lemon-Roasted Chicken

• Use fresh lemons for the best flavor.
• Make sure to pat the chicken dry to get a crispy skin.
• Pair it with roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

This dish is not just about the taste; it’s also about the aroma that fills your kitchen while it cooks. Enjoy the bright and zesty flavors!

7. Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

This Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is a delightful dish that combines the bright flavors of lemon with tender chicken and orzo pasta. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner!

Ingredients

• 1 large lemon
• 2 tbsp. olive oil
• 3 large shallots, thinly sliced (about 1 cup)
• 2 tsp. chopped fresh rosemary
• 8 cups unsalted chicken stock

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the shallots and cook until they are soft.
3. Pour in the chicken stock and bring to a boil.
4. Stir in the orzo and cook until tender.
5. Add the cooked chicken and lemon juice, then season to taste.

This soup is not only comforting but also packed with flavor. The zesty lemon really brightens up the dish!

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
• Pair with a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Top with fresh parsley for added flavor.

8. Lemon-Pepper Grilled Chicken

Lemon-pepper grilled chicken is a delicious and easy dish that brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table. This recipe is perfect for summer barbecues or a quick weeknight meal. The combination of zesty lemon and spicy pepper makes every bite refreshing and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

Instructions

1. Prepare the marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill the chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked.
4. Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Enjoy it with your favorite sides!

Tips for Perfect Grilling

• Always preheat your grill to ensure even cooking.
• Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Let the chicken rest after grilling to keep it juicy.

This lemon-pepper chicken is not just tasty; it’s also a great way to impress your guests with minimal effort!

Nutritional Information

Enjoy this zesty grilled chicken as a main dish or slice it up for salads and wraps!

9. Lemon Chicken Stuffed Shells

Lemon Chicken Stuffed Shells are a delightful twist on a classic dish. These shells are filled with a creamy lemony chicken mixture that will brighten up your dinner table. Here’s how to make them:

Ingredients

• 10 ounces jumbo shells
• 15-ounce container ricotta
• 3 cups grated mozzarella (divided)
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• ½ cup each: lemon juice and zest
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the jumbo shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a bowl, mix ricotta, 2 cups of mozzarella, parmesan, lemon juice, lemon zest, and shredded chicken. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each shell with the chicken mixture and place them in a baking dish.
5. Top with remaining mozzarella and bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side salad for a fresh touch.
• Pair with garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Drizzle with extra lemon juice for added zest.

Enjoy this dish as a comforting meal that combines the flavors of lemon and chicken in a fun way!

10. Lemon-Pepper Fried Chicken

Lemon-pepper fried chicken is a delicious twist on the classic fried chicken. This dish combines the zesty flavor of lemon with the kick of black pepper, making it a favorite for many. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts
• Lemon-pepper seasoning
• Bread crumbs
• Oil for frying

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise and season with salt.
2. Heat the Oil: In a pan, heat oil and half the butter until hot.
3. Cook the Chicken: Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown. Transfer to a plate.
4. Coat with Lemon-Pepper: After frying, sprinkle lemon-pepper seasoning generously over the chicken.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the chicken over rice with gravy.
• Garnish with freshly ground pepper and lemon zest for extra flavor.
• Pair with a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

This lemon-pepper fried chicken is not just tasty; it’s also a fun dish to prepare with friends. You can even make a lemon pepper wet fried chicken sandwich by adding crispy fried chicken on a bun with lemon pepper wet sauce, cucumbers, pickled onion, and blue cheese!

11. Lemon Chicken and Potatoes

This dish combines tender chicken with flavorful potatoes for a satisfying meal. The zesty lemon adds a bright touch that makes every bite delightful. Here’s how to prepare it:

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 lb. Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into chunks
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 lemons, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine lemon slices, olive oil, onion, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken thighs and potatoes, tossing to coat everything well.
4. Bake for about 45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.

Tips for Success

• Use fresh lemons for the best flavor.
• You can add chickpeas for extra protein and texture.
• Serve with a side of green beans or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

This one-dish meal is perfect for busy weeknights, making cleanup a breeze while still delivering a delicious dinner!

12. Double Lemon Chicken

This Double Lemon Chicken recipe is a delightful twist on traditional chicken dishes. It combines the bright flavors of lemon in two ways, making it a perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2-3 pieces)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon lemon pepper
• ¼ cup plus 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup white wine
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons capers

Herb Relish

• ½ cup chopped parsley
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 scallions, chopped
• 2 tablespoons grated parmesan
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• Juice of ½ lemon
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Season the chicken with salt and lemon pepper.
2. Dredge the chicken in flour, shaking off the excess.
3. In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat.
4. Cook the chicken until golden brown on both sides, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
6. Pour in white wine and chicken broth, then stir in lemon juice and capers.
7. Simmer until the sauce thickens slightly.
8. Serve with the herb relish on top for an extra burst of flavor.

This dish is not just about the chicken; the herb relish adds a fresh and zesty touch that makes it truly special!

13. Harissa and Lemon-Pepper Wings

These wings are a fantastic twist on the classic flavor. The combination of harissa and lemon-pepper creates a unique taste that will impress your guests. Here’s how to make them:

Ingredients

• Chicken wings
• Harissa paste
• Lemon-pepper seasoning
• Olive oil
• Salt

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix the chicken wings with harissa paste, lemon-pepper seasoning, olive oil, and a pinch of salt.
3. Spread the wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for about 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and cooked through.

Tips for Perfect Wings

• Use fresh lemon-pepper seasoning for the best flavor.
• Adjust the amount of harissa based on your spice preference.
• Serve with a side of cooling ranch or blue cheese dressing.

Enjoy these wings as a zesty appetizer or a main dish. They are sure to be a hit at any gathering!

14. Baked Lemon-Butter Chicken Thighs

Baked Lemon-Butter Chicken Thighs are a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a rich lemony sauce. This recipe is not only easy to make but also brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table.

Ingredients

• 1.5 to 2 lbs boneless chicken thighs (about 6 thighs)
• ½ cup flour
• 2 lemons (zested and juiced)
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• ¼ cup butter
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ cup whole milk

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Trim any excess fat from the chicken thighs.
2. Mix the Coating: In a bowl, combine flour, spices, and half of the lemon zest. Dredge the chicken thighs in this mixture.
3. Cook the Chicken: Melt butter in a pan over medium heat. Cook the thighs for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned. Cover until the internal temperature reaches 165ºF, about 5 minutes.
4. Make the Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix chicken broth, milk, lemon juice, and the remaining lemon zest. Pour this into the pan and bring to a boil until it reduces by half, about 3-5 minutes.
5. Combine: Add the chicken back to the pan, coating it in the sauce.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices for a beautiful presentation.

Tips

• Fresh vs. Bottled: Fresh lemons provide the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch.
• Substitutions: You can use plant-based milk or vegetable broth if needed.
• Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs well with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad.

The creamy lemon sauce adds a luxurious richness to the dish and the fresh lemon juice and zest provide a nice acidic kick to this tender chicken.

Enjoy this zesty and flavorful meal that your whole family will love!

15. Juicy Lemon-Rosemary Roast Chicken

This Juicy Lemon-Rosemary Roast Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together the bright flavors of lemon and the earthy notes of rosemary. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe is sure to impress!

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken, rinsed and patted dry
• 3 whole lemons, quartered
• 4 sprigs of rosemary
• 3/4 cup (12 tbsp) butter, softened
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the softened butter with salt and pepper.
3. Rub the butter mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get under the skin for extra flavor.
4. Stuff the chicken cavity with the quartered lemons and rosemary sprigs.
5. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and roast for about 1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
6. Let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Pair with a light salad to balance the richness of the chicken.
• Enjoy with a side of mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the delicious juices.

This dish is not just about flavor; it’s also about the experience of cooking and sharing a meal with loved ones. Enjoy every bite!

If you’re looking for a tasty and easy meal, try our Lemon-Rosemary Roast Chicken! This dish is not only juicy but also packed with flavor. It’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Want to discover more delicious recipes? Visit our website and explore a world of tasty options!

Final Thoughts on Lemon Chicken Delights

In conclusion, lemon chicken recipes are a fantastic way to bring bright and zesty flavors to your dinner table. With 15 different recipes to choose from, you can easily find something that fits your taste and cooking style. Whether you prefer a quick meal or something a bit more elaborate, these dishes are sure to impress your family and friends. So, grab some lemons and chicken, and start cooking! You won’t regret trying these delicious meals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some easy lemon chicken recipes?

You can try Easy Lemon Chicken, Lemon-Pepper Chicken, or Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup for simple and tasty options.

How long does it take to cook lemon chicken?

Most lemon chicken recipes take about 20 to 30 minutes to prepare and cook.

Can I use other types of chicken for these recipes?

Yes! You can use chicken thighs, drumsticks, or even whole chicken, depending on the recipe.

What should I serve with lemon chicken?

Lemon chicken pairs well with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad. You can also add roasted veggies.

Is lemon chicken healthy?

Lemon chicken can be a healthy option, especially when cooked with minimal oil and served with veggies.

Can I make lemon chicken in advance?

Yes, you can prepare lemon chicken ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to eat.

What can I do with leftover lemon chicken?

Leftover lemon chicken can be added to salads, wraps, or pasta dishes for a quick meal.

Are there any variations of lemon chicken recipes?

Absolutely! You can make creamy lemon chicken, lemon-roasted chicken, or even lemon-pepper wings.