If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful dinner, Chicken al Limone is the perfect choice. This Italian-inspired dish features tender, pan-seared chicken breasts in a bright and tangy lemon sauce that’s both refreshing and satisfying. It’s a simple recipe that’s packed with flavor, making it an ideal meal for busy weeknights or even a special dinner when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
Jump to RecipeWhat is Chicken al Limone?
“Al Limone” means “with lemon” in Italian, and that’s exactly what makes this dish so special. The chicken is seared to golden perfection and then simmered in a luscious sauce made with fresh lemon juice, garlic, and a touch of butter. The result is a juicy, flavorful chicken breast with a rich, tangy glaze that perfectly balances the savory notes of the meat. It’s a dish that feels fancy yet comes together in just about 30 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, Chicken al Limone is ideal for a delicious weeknight dinner.
- Healthy: Lean chicken breasts are cooked with fresh lemon juice, garlic, and butter—no heavy sauces or complicated steps required.
- Versatile: Serve it with roasted vegetables, pasta, or a light salad for a complete meal that suits any occasion.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How to Make Chicken al Limone:
Season the Chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Make the Lemon Sauce: In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, pour in the lemon juice and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Combine and Serve: Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Let the chicken cook in the sauce for 2-3 more minutes to soak up the flavors. Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken al Limone pairs wonderfully with roasted potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a side of garlic butter pasta. If you’re keeping it light, a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette will complement the flavors beautifully.
