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Keto Lemon Chicken Recipe: Bursting with Flavor!

Hi everyone, I’m Anne from Beyond The Bayou Blog! Today, I’m cooking up a delicious keto lemon chicken that’s perfect for family dinners. Trust me, it’s a hit!

Savor the zesty delight of Keto Lemon Chicken, a perfect blend of tangy lemon and savory spices tailored for a low-carb lifestyle.

This dish features tender chicken breasts marinated in a refreshing lemon-garlic mixture, then sautéed to golden perfection. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful lunch, this recipe offers a burst of flavor without the carbs.

Not only is it simple to prepare, but it’s also rich in protein and healthy fats, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal that fits seamlessly into your ketogenic diet plan. Enjoy a vibrant, guilt-free culinary experience!

What Is Keto Lemon Chicken?

You’ve got chicken thighs cooking alongside cauliflower, zucchini, feta, and olives all on one baking sheet. But the real hero here? That tasty sauce! It’s got garlic and lemon packed into every drop. When I made it, I couldn’t believe how good it was—I almost wanted to drink it straight from the bowl!

I split the sauce in half: one part for coating the veggies, and the other for spreading over the chicken. And let me tell you, the flavors were off the charts! Plus, I’ve tried this marinade on different kinds of chicken and even fish, and it’s always a winner. Trust me, it’s a must-try

Why You Will Love This Recipe?

  1. Simplicity at its Best: This lemon butter chicken recipe proves that sometimes, the simplest recipes are the most delicious.
  2. Minimal Ingredients: With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for a post-work family dinner.
  3. Low Effort, High Reward: Say goodbye to complicated cooking processes. This recipe is super easy to follow, meaning you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.
  4. Budget-Friendly: Who says tasty meals have to break the bank? This lemon butter chicken is both inexpensive and satisfying.
  5. Lemon-Chicken Combo: Lemon and chicken are a match made in culinary heaven, and this recipe takes full advantage of their delicious pairing.
  6. Zesty Upgrade: By incorporating lemon zest, we’re kicking the flavor up a notch, ensuring each bite bursts with bright, citrusy goodness.
  7. Pantry Staples Elevated: Consider this dish a fancy upgrade to your usual pantry staples. It’s like Chicken Piccata’s easygoing cousin – familiar yet elevated.

Overview: How To Make Keto Lemon Chicken?

Overview How To Make Keto Lemon Chicken

Easy Lemon Chicken – the ultimate dinner solution for those lazy evenings when you crave something delicious without the hassle. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have tender chicken coated in a luscious buttery lemon sauce that’ll have your taste buds dancing.

To get started, simply grab two large boneless, skinless chicken breasts and cut them in half lengthwise to create thinner cutlets. Sprinkle these beauties with salt, pepper, and a hint of garlic powder, then give them a gentle dredge in flour for that perfect coating.

Next up, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of olive oil along with a tablespoon of butter. Once sizzling, drop in your chicken cutlets and let them sizzle away for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re beautifully golden. Once done, set them aside to rest while we work on that mouthwatering sauce.

In the same skillet, pour in some chicken broth, lemon juice, and zest, then toss in the remaining butter. Let this heavenly concoction bubble away for a couple of minutes until it’s nicely reduced and fragrant. Return your golden chicken cutlets to the pan and let them cozy up in that irresistible lemony goodness for a few more minutes until fully cooked through.

And there you have it – easy peasy lemon squeezy! Give it a final seasoning of salt and pepper if needed, and sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for that extra burst of flavor. Dinner is served, and trust me, it’s a winner!

Keto Lemon Chicken Recipe Bursting with Flavor!

Keto Lemon Chicken Recipe

This 20-minute lemon chicken recipe has juicy chicken with a simple buttery lemon sauce. It's the ideal dinner for when you don't want to put in a lot of effort!
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Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Calories: 327kcal
Author: Anne Carter
Servings: 4

Equipment

  • Chef's Knife
  • Cutting Board
  • Medium-sized Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Skillet
  • Tongs

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 to taste

Instructions

  • Slice chicken breasts in half lengthwise and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  • Coat chicken in flour.
  • Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Cook chicken cutlets for 4-5 minutes per side until golden; set aside.
  • In the same skillet, add chicken broth, lemon juice + zest, and remaining butter; simmer for a few minutes.
  • Return chicken to the skillet and cook until done and sauce is reduced.
  • Season with salt & pepper, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve.

Nutrition

Calories: 327kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 36g | Fat: 19g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 130mg | Sodium: 630mg | Potassium: 1mg

Tips Which Might Help!

  • Pound the Chicken: For even cooking, consider pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness before slicing. This helps the chicken cook uniformly and stay juicy.
  • Use a Thermometer: To ensure perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F. This prevents overcooking and keeps the chicken tender.
  • High-Quality Ingredients: Opt for organic chicken broth and fresh lemons. The quality of your ingredients can make a significant difference in flavor.
  • Deglaze Properly: When adding the chicken broth and lemon juice, make sure to scrape up the browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These bits are full of flavor and will enrich your sauce.
  • Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh thyme or rosemary on hand, add a sprig to the sauce while it simmers. It infuses the dish with a wonderful depth of flavor.
  • Rest the Chicken: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, making the chicken even more succulent.
  • Adjust Thickness: If your sauce is too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce and thicken. If it’s too thick, add a splash of chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
  • Zest Wisely: When zesting the lemon, be careful to avoid the white pith underneath, which can add bitterness to your dish. Only zest the outer yellow layer for the best flavor.

What To Serve With Keto Lemon Chicken?

What To Serve With Keto Lemon Chicken

Variations That Can Be Tried!

  • Buttery Bliss: Amp up the richness by incorporating 2 tablespoons of grass-fed butter into the sauce. It adds a velvety texture and an extra layer of flavor that’ll have you licking your plate clean.
  • Garlic Goodness: Transform your dish into Keto Lemon Garlic Chicken by tossing in 1 teaspoon of minced garlic when you’re deglazing the pan. The garlic infuses the sauce with its aromatic essence, taking your taste buds on a flavorful journey.
  • Caper Craze: Want to add a tangy kick? After deglazing the pan, throw in 3 tablespoons of rinsed and drained capers. These little bursts of briny goodness add a delightful zing to every bite, making your keto lemon chicken truly unforgettable.

Can I Use Cream in Sauce?

Yes. For a creamy lemon sauce, add ½ cup or 120ml heavy cream at the end. Grated parmesan also works well in combination with cream.

Will chicken thighs also work?

Of course. Choose boneless skinless chicken thighs. It is also possible to use chicken pieces with skin.

What to use instead of heavy cream?

I’ve only tried this with the cream but some readers have commented that almond milk and coconut milk work too, though it may not be as thick or creamy.

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