Name: Easy Chicken Limone
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Salt and black pepper (to taste); 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp salted butter; 1 shallot, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped; ¾ cup chicken broth; 3 tsp gelatin (or ½ tsp glucomannan powder); 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves; 1 tsp finely grated lemon zest; 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice; Lemon slices and chopped parsley (for garnish)

Chicken Limone is one of those dishes that feels like a restaurant-quality meal, yet it’s incredibly simple to make at home. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, you can transform plain chicken breasts into something truly special. The magic of this dish lies in the bright, citrusy lemon sauce, balanced with a rich buttery finish. It’s tangy, silky, and packed with flavor—perfect for a weeknight dinner or an elegant meal for guests.

This dish is often mistaken for chicken piccata, but there’s a key difference: Chicken Limone skips the capers, focusing solely on the smooth, buttery lemon sauce that coats the tender chicken. It’s naturally low in carbs and gluten-free, making it a great option for a variety of diets. And the best part? It comes together in under 30 minutes.

I remember the first time I made Chicken Limone—it was on a night when I wanted something comforting yet fresh. I had lemons in my kitchen and some chicken breasts in the fridge, and I decided to experiment. The result was a dish so good that my family immediately asked for seconds. Ever since, it has become a staple in our home, and I can’t wait for you to try it too.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken Limone recipe is perfect for anyone who loves a balance of bold, fresh flavors and simple cooking techniques. Here’s why you’re going to love it:

Quick and easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
Minimal ingredients: You only need a few kitchen staples like chicken, lemon, butter, and broth. No fancy ingredients required.
Full of flavor: The combination of lemon, garlic, and butter creates a sauce that’s tangy, creamy, and absolutely irresistible.
Healthy and nutritious: This recipe is low in carbs and gluten-free, making it a great choice for those watching their carb intake.
Family-friendly: The mild, buttery sauce makes this a hit with kids and adults alike.
Restaurant-quality at home: You don’t need to go out to enjoy an elegant meal—this recipe brings the flavors of a high-end Italian restaurant right to your dinner table.

With all these benefits, Chicken Limone is bound to become a staple in your kitchen, just as it has in mine.

Health Benefits

Not only is Chicken Limone incredibly delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients that can benefit your health. Let’s take a closer look at why this dish is a great choice for a balanced meal:

High in protein: Chicken breasts are an excellent source of lean protein, which helps build muscle, supports metabolism, and keeps you full for longer.
Rich in vitamin C: Lemons are packed with vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports the immune system and promotes healthy skin.
Heart-healthy fats: Butter, when used in moderation, provides healthy fats that can aid in nutrient absorption and improve overall satiety.
Low in carbohydrates: This dish is naturally low in carbs, making it ideal for those following a keto or low-carb diet.
Good for digestion: The acidity from the lemon juice can help stimulate digestion and improve gut health.

By pairing this dish with some fiber-rich vegetables or whole grains, you can create a well-rounded meal that nourishes your body while satisfying your taste buds.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Total Time: 25 minutes
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Calories: 286 kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g (Net Carbs: 4g)
Protein: 30g
Fat: 16g
Sodium: 517mg
Vitamin C: 15mg

Ingredients List

For this simple yet elegant dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 250g / ½ pound each)
Salt and black pepper (to taste)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp salted butter
1 shallot, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
¾ cup chicken broth or stock
3 tsp gelatin (or ½ tsp glucomannan powder) – for a gluten-free thickener
1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
1 tsp finely grated lemon zest
3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Lemon slices and chopped parsley (for garnish)

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Prepare the chicken: Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and slice each one in half lengthwise to create four thin cutlets. This helps them cook quickly and evenly. Season both sides with salt and black pepper.
Heat the oil and butter: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the butter and let it melt, swirling it around the pan.
Cook the chicken: Place the seasoned chicken cutlets into the hot skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they develop a golden brown crust and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the aromatics: In the same skillet, add the finely chopped shallot and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and become fragrant.
Deglaze the pan: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds rich depth to the sauce.
Thicken the sauce: Stir in the gelatin (or glucomannan powder) to help the sauce thicken slightly. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until it reduces slightly.
Add the lemon flavor: Stir in the lemon zest and fresh lemon juice. The sauce should be smooth, glossy, and bursting with citrusy aroma.
Return the chicken to the pan: Place the cooked chicken cutlets back into the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Let them simmer for 1-2 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with chopped parsley and place lemon slices on top. Serve immediately.

How to Serve

Chicken Limone is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few serving suggestions:

Over a bed of buttered pasta or rice
With steamed vegetables like green beans or asparagus
Alongside mashed cauliflower or roasted potatoes
On top of a simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette

Pairing Suggestions

This dish pairs well with:

Lemon herb quinoa for a light and refreshing contrast
Garlic roasted broccoli for a boost of fiber and nutrients
Grilled zucchini for a smoky, charred flavor

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Store in freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheat: Use the microwave (30-second bursts) or oven at 180°C (350°F) until warm.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Chicken Limone is simple, but small mistakes can affect the texture and flavor. Here are some common errors and how to avoid them.

One of the biggest mistakes is overcooking the chicken. Because the chicken breasts are sliced thin, they cook quickly. If left in the pan too long, they become dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should be 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, slice into the thickest part of the chicken—if the juices run clear, it’s ready.

Another common issue is using bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemons. Fresh lemon juice provides a bright, natural citrus flavor, while bottled juice often has preservatives that can make the dish taste artificial. Always use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best results.

Many people skip pounding the chicken or cutting it into thinner pieces. This results in uneven cooking, with some parts drying out while others remain undercooked. If your chicken breasts are thick, use a meat mallet to gently pound them to an even thickness of about ½ inch before cooking.

Not deglazing the pan is another missed opportunity. The browned bits left in the skillet after cooking the chicken are packed with flavor. When you add the broth and scrape the pan, you’re creating a more complex, restaurant-quality sauce. If you don’t do this, the sauce may taste flat.

Some cooks add too much lemon juice, making the sauce overly sour. While lemon is the star of this dish, balance is key. Stick to the recommended amount and adjust only after tasting.

Lastly, not letting the chicken rest before serving can result in a loss of juices. Once the chicken is cooked, let it sit in the pan for a minute or two. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and flavorful.

Pro Tips

For the best Chicken Limone, follow these expert tips to enhance flavor and texture.

Use high-quality ingredients whenever possible. Freshly squeezed lemon juice, organic chicken, and homemade chicken broth will make a noticeable difference in taste. If you can, opt for free-range chicken—it tends to be juicier and more flavorful than conventional cuts.

Season the chicken generously before cooking. Salt and black pepper enhance the natural flavors and help create a beautiful golden crust when seared. For added depth, sprinkle a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika on the chicken before cooking.

Let the chicken reach room temperature before cooking. Taking it out of the fridge 15-20 minutes before cooking ensures even cooking and prevents the chicken from seizing up when it hits the hot pan.

Cook the chicken in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the pan lowers the temperature, causing the chicken to steam instead of sear. If your pan isn’t large enough, cook the chicken in two batches to get that perfect golden-brown crust.

Adjust the sauce thickness to your preference. If you want a thicker sauce, let it reduce for a few extra minutes before adding the lemon juice. Alternatively, if it’s too thick, stir in a splash of extra broth to thin it out.

For a richer flavor, finish the sauce with a small pat of butter. This adds silkiness and balances the acidity of the lemon. Swirling in the butter at the end gives the sauce a smooth, restaurant-quality finish.

Garnish thoughtfully. Fresh parsley and lemon slices not only enhance the presentation but also add a fresh, herbaceous contrast to the buttery sauce. If you love an extra citrus kick, a light zesting of lemon just before serving can brighten the dish even more.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, but keep in mind that chicken thighs have more fat and take slightly longer to cook. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will work well, but adjust the cooking time to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can cook the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make Chicken Limone dairy-free, replace the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter substitute. The flavor will be slightly different, but the dish will still be delicious.

What should I serve with Chicken Limone?
This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple side salad. If you’re following a low-carb diet, serve it with mashed cauliflower or zucchini noodles.

Can I freeze Chicken Limone?
Yes, but the texture of the sauce may change slightly upon reheating. Store cooled chicken and sauce in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in a skillet.

Why is my sauce too thin?
If your sauce is too runny, let it simmer for a few extra minutes to reduce. You can also add a small amount of cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water) to thicken it.

Can I use bone-in chicken?
Yes, but bone-in chicken takes longer to cook. You may need to increase the cooking time to 25-30 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Chicken Limone is the perfect dish to bring bright, zesty flavors to your dinner table with minimal effort. With its tender chicken, silky lemon butter sauce, and simple ingredients, it’s a dish that feels fancy but is incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results every time.

If you’ve been searching for a go-to chicken recipe that’s quick, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing, this is it. The balance of fresh lemon, rich butter, and savory broth makes every bite irresistible. Plus, the versatility of this dish means you can serve it with pasta, rice, vegetables, or a fresh salad—whatever suits your mood.

Now, it’s time to bring this recipe to life in your kitchen! Gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy a meal that’s sure to impress. Once you try it, you might find yourself making it again and again.

I’d love to hear how your Chicken Limone turned out! Leave a comment below sharing your experience, and if you made any delicious modifications, let me know. If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to save it, share it, and tag me on social media so I can see your amazing creations. Happy cooking!