Longhorn Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe

This Longhorn lemon garlic chicken is packed with bright, garlicky goodness that keeps things fresh and exciting!

I always use fresh garlic, not powder, since it gives the sauce a richer, more intense taste.

Searing the chicken before finishing it in the oven helps lock in the juices and gives it a golden-brown crust.

A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end wakes up all the other flavors without making it too tart.

This dish is light but still hearty, which makes it one of my favorites for a weeknight dinner!

How to Make Longhorn Lemon Garlic Chicken

Ingredients

• 4 Boneless Chicken Breasts
• 1/2 cup Olive Oil
• 1/4 cup Lemon Juice
• 4 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
• 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated)
• 1/4 cup Chicken Stock
• 2 tbsp Butter
• 1 tsp Thyme (fresh, chopped)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.

Mix well to create a marinade.

Step 2:

Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and let them sit for at least an hour in the fridge.

Letting them sit longer intensifies the flavors.

Step 3:

Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat.

Add the chicken breasts and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side.

Step 4:

Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, add the remaining marinade, chicken stock, and thyme.

Bring to a simmer.

Step 5:

Return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and let it cook for another 10-15 minutes until thoroughly cooked.

Sprinkle Parmesan cheese before serving.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Balance the Flavors

You want to balance the garlic and lemon without overpowering the dish.

Adjust the lemon juice and garlic according to your liking for the best blend of flavors.

Resting the Chicken

Letting the chicken rest after cooking helps lock in the juices.

Allow it to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing or serving.

Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh thyme and freshly grated Parmesan can really enhance the dish.

These fresh elements contribute to a more vibrant and aromatic taste.

Marinade Time

Marinading the chicken overnight is a fantastic way to get maximum flavor.

This extended time ensures the marinade deeply penetrates the chicken.

Heat Management

Keep the heat at medium to ensure the chicken cooks evenly without burning.

Control the temperature to maintain a nice golden crust on the chicken.

What to Serve with Longhorn Lemon Garlic Chicken

Classic Mashed Potatoes

When I think about comforting side dishes, you just can’t go wrong with mashed potatoes.

They pair beautifully with Longhorn Lemon Garlic Chicken by soaking up all the delicious flavors.

It’s straightforward; just add a little butter and cream for that velvety texture.

Sautéed Green Beans

Sautéed green beans bring a fresh and crunchy balance to your plate.

With a little garlic and olive oil, these beans will bring a vibrant green color to your meal.

You can toss them with almonds for a nutty twist that sets off the lemony chicken.

Couscous

Couscous is not as common as rice, but it offers a unique texture.

Consider it for your meal, especially when cooked in chicken broth for extra flavor.

Add some herbs or lemon zest to tie it all together with your main dish.

Cauliflower Rice

For a lighter option, give cauliflower rice a try.

It’s a great alternative if you’re cutting down on carbs.

Just a quick stir fry with a bit of garlic and olive oil keeps it simple and tasty.

Caprese Salad

Tomato, mozzarella, and fresh basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make for a refreshing side.

The acidity of the tomatoes contrasts nicely with the creamy cheese and aromatic basil.

It’s a colorful and fresh addition to your dinner table.

Enjoy experimenting with these sides and find your favorite way to complement your dish!

Variations and Substitutions

Chicken Options

You can easily switch up the chicken breasts for boneless and skinless chicken thighs if you prefer a more tender cut.

Thighs bring a richer flavor and can withstand longer cooking times without drying out.

Cheese Choices

You might want to try using Swiss cheese instead of provolone for a unique twist on the classic.

Swiss adds a mild and nutty taste that pairs nicely with the lemon garlic sauce.

Sauce Adjustments

If you’re looking to add a dash of sweetness, consider substituting honey for the lemon juice.

This change creates a different flavor profile that complements the garlic perfectly.

Dietary Adjustments

For a gluten-free option, use arrowroot powder instead of cornstarch in any necessary sauce thickeners.

You’ll love how easy it is to adapt this recipe for different dietary needs!

How to Store Leftover Longhorn Lemon Garlic Chicken

Cool It First

Once your delicious Longhorn Lemon Garlic Chicken is ready to store, let it cool down to room temperature for about 30 minutes.

This step is crucial to prevent moisture build-up, which can cause the chicken to become soggy when stored.

Refrigeration Tips

Place your Longhorn Lemon Garlic Chicken in an airtight container to maintain freshness in the refrigerator.

Leftovers should be eaten within 3 days to enjoy the best flavors and textures.

Freezing Option

If you’re planning to store it for more than a few days, freezing is the way to go!

Wrap the chicken tightly in a freezer-safe container or bag, and label it with the date.

Frozen leftovers should be consumed within 3 months for optimal taste and texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Chicken

You want to make sure the chicken stays juicy and tender.

Cooking it too long can dry it out, losing that delicious moisture.

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Skipping the Resting Period

After cooking, it’s important to let the chicken rest for a few minutes.

This helps lock in the juices and flavors.

Don’t skip this step, or you might miss out on a juicy finish.

Not Using Fresh Ingredients

Fresh lemon juice and garlic make a big difference.

Bottled substitutes can alter the flavor, making them less vibrant.

Invest in fresh ingredients for a truly flavorful dish.