Lemon Broiled Chicken
Juicy broiled chicken infused with lemon and seasoned with savory spices, perfect for a flavorful, comforting meal suited for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rub the chicken on all sides with the cut surface of the lemons. Cover and refrigerate for 3 to 4 hours.
- Brush the chicken with melted butter; sprinkle with salt, pepper, MSG, and paprika.
- Place the chicken, skin side down, in a broiler pan without a rack. Broil 5 to 7 inches from the heat for about 25 minutes or until lightly browned, brushing occasionally with butter.
- Turn the chicken over and broil for an additional 15 to 20 minutes.
- About 3 minutes before the end of broiling, sprinkle the chicken with sugar.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, let the chicken marinate in the lemon juice for the full 4 hours to enhance flavor and tenderness. If you don’t have MSG, you can omit it or use a little extra salt. For a twist, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary for additional flavor. If you prefer a less buttery version, you can substitute olive oil for the melted butter.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the lemon broiled chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Dorothy'S Carrot Soup for a comforting dinner. For a heartier option, consider serving it with American Chow Mein, which complements the flavors nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also use a microwave, but the oven will help maintain the chicken's crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon Broiled Chicken contains roughly 89 calories, with 2g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 508mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
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 pieces instead of a whole chicken?
Yes, chicken pieces such as thighs or breasts work well too. Just adjust the broiling time as smaller pieces may cook faster, usually around 15-20 minutes on each side, depending on thickness.
What can I substitute for lemons if I don’t have any?
If you don't have lemons, lime juice can be a great substitute, providing a similar acidity and brightness. Alternatively, you can use vinegar, but reduce the quantity to avoid overpowering the dish.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, consider incorporating cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes along with the paprika. Adjust to your preferred spice level, starting with a small amount and increasing as needed.
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).