Quick and easy lemon chicken recipe for solo diners: say goodbye to loneliness!

Craving a delectable and tangy meal without the hassle of leftovers? Look no further than this mouthwatering lemon chicken recipe, perfectly portioned for one. With its vibrant citrus notes and tender chicken, this dish will tantalize your taste buds and leave you feeling satisfied without overindulging.

Ingredients:

• 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast (about 4 ounces)
• 1/4 cup lemon juice (from about 1 lemon)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and place them in a bowl.
2. Marinate the Chicken: In a separate bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour the marinade over the chicken and toss to coat. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
3. Cook the Chicken: Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the Broth: Pour the chicken broth into the skillet and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and 1 tablespoon of water to form a slurry. Gradually whisk the slurry into the skillet, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Garnish the lemon chicken with fresh parsley or lemon zest, and serve over your favorite side dish, such as rice, pasta, or vegetables.

The Perfect Pairing: Side Dish Suggestions

Complement your tangy lemon chicken with a variety of flavorful side dishes:

• Rice: Fluffy white rice or brown rice soak up the delicious sauce perfectly.
• Pasta: Angel hair pasta or spaghetti provide a light and delicate base for the chicken.
• Vegetables: Steamed broccoli, roasted carrots, or a simple green salad add a touch of freshness and nutrition.

Tips for a Perfectly Tangy Lemon Chicken

• Use fresh lemon juice: Bottled lemon juice lacks the vibrant flavor of fresh lemons.
• Adjust the lemon juice: If you prefer a more subtle lemon flavor, reduce the amount of lemon juice in the marinade and sauce.
• Don’t overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken becomes tough and dry. Cook until it is just cooked through.
• Serve immediately: Lemon chicken is best enjoyed fresh, so serve it as soon as it is cooked.

Variations on the Lemon Chicken Theme

• Spicy Lemon Chicken: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
• Herbed Lemon Chicken: Mix in your favorite fresh herbs, such as basil, thyme, or rosemary, to the marinade for extra flavor.
• Grilled Lemon Chicken: Marinate the chicken as directed and grill over medium heat until cooked through.

Wrap-Up: A Meal for One, Made with Love

This lemon chicken recipe for one is the perfect way to treat yourself to a satisfying and flavorful meal. Whether you’re cooking for a solo dinner or a quick lunch, this tangy dish will brighten your day and leave you feeling content and fulfilled.

Frequently Discussed Topics

Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just be sure to thaw it completely before marinating.

Q: How long can I store leftover lemon chicken?
A: Leftover lemon chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator. Cook the chicken just before serving.