Description
This Whole30 Lemon Chicken recipe delivers a nourishing and delicious meal with the bright, zesty aroma of fresh lemons, garlic, and herbs. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknight dinners or clean eating options.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 pounds chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on for best flavor)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or ghee
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (plus more to taste)
- 2 cups compliant chicken broth (check for no added sugar or preservatives)
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic (about 2–3 cloves)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (approximately 1 large lemon)
- 1/4 cup coconut cream (not sweetened coconut milk)
- 1 large lemon, thinly sliced for garnish
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional: thyme, rosemary, or parsley)
Instructions
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with sea salt and black pepper. Let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes if time allows.
- Heat olive oil or ghee in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken thighs skin-side down for 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown, then flip and sear the other side for another 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Pour in chicken broth, deglazing the pan, then stir in lemon juice. Bring to a gentle simmer and reduce for about 5 minutes.
- Return chicken thighs to the skillet, skin-side up, and arrange lemon slices around and on top. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add coconut cream and stir to incorporate.
- Remove from heat. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- Use a cast-iron skillet if possible as it retains heat beautifully and creates the best sear.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- For meal prep, double the recipe and store portions for easy lunches and dinners throughout the week.
- Add vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a one-pan meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: N/A
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 recipe
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 22
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: 3
- Fiber: 0
- Protein: 28
- Cholesterol: N/A
Keywords: whole30 lemon chicken, chicken recipe whole30, gluten free lemon chicken