Chicken Breast In Lemon Sauce
Tender chicken breasts in a zesty lemon sauce with garlic and apple juice, perfect for a quick, flavorful meal suited for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut each chicken breast horizontally to make two thin slices.
- Coat the chicken slices with flour.
- Heat margarine in a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the chicken and chopped garlic in the margarine for 4 to 6 minutes, turning once until the chicken is browned.
- Add apple juice and lemon juice to the skillet.
- Sprinkle with pepper and heat until hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. If you're looking for a low-calorie alternative, replace apple juice with unsweetened apple cider. Make sure to brown the chicken slices well for maximum flavor. You can also add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch. For a gluten-free option, skip the flour coating or use a gluten-free flour substitute.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken breast in lemon sauce with steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a light meal. It pairs beautifully with Penny'S Potato Soup for a comforting dinner. You can also serve it over rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce, making for a satisfying dish that’s full of flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or extra apple juice to prevent drying out. You can also microwave it, covered, in short intervals until heated through, ensuring it remains moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Breast In Lemon Sauce contains roughly 103 calories, with 3g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (118% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for a juicier and more flavorful dish. Just adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through than breasts, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
What can I substitute for apple juice?
If you don’t have apple juice, you can use white grape juice or a mixture of water and a splash of vinegar for acidity. This will still give you a nice balance of sweetness and tartness in the sauce.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Simply cook everything, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving. This is a great option for meal prepping or hosting dinner parties.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).