Bright, zesty, and simply delicious, this Healthy Lemon Chicken recipe is a perfect balance of flavor and nutrition. Tender, golden-seared chicken breasts are simmered in a light, citrusy sauce made with fresh lemon juice, garlic, and a touch of honey for natural sweetness. Enhanced by a low-sodium chicken broth base and thickened with a cornstarch slurry for a velvety finish, this dish is as wholesome as it is satisfying. Ready in just 35 minutes, itβs an ideal weeknight dinner that pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables or brown rice for a complete, guilt-free meal. With its vibrant flavors and healthy ingredients, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their mealtime while embracing clean eating.
Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch to ensure even cooking.
Season the chicken with salt and black pepper on both sides.
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165Β°F). Remove the chicken and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and minced garlic. SautΓ© the garlic for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, chicken broth, and honey to the skillet. Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer.
In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Slowly pour the slurry into the skillet while stirring to thicken the sauce.
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the chicken to absorb the flavors.
Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Serve warm, optionally alongside brown rice or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Calories |
1547 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 53.8 g | 69% | |
| Saturated Fat | 11.4 g | 57% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 592 mg | 197% | |
| Sodium | 2956 mg | 129% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 35.4 g | 13% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.7 g | 6% | |
| Total Sugars | 19.9 g | ||
| Protein | 219.2 g | 438% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.2 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 131 mg | 10% | |
| Iron | 7.9 mg | 44% | |
| Potassium | 1996 mg | 42% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.