Lemon Chili Chicken

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### Instructions

#### Step 1: Season the Chicken
1. In a small bowl, combine the **garlic powder**, **onion powder**, **chili powder**, **smoked paprika**, **salt**, and **pepper**.
2. Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.

#### Step 2: Sear the Chicken
1. Heat **olive oil** in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and sear for 4–5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove the chicken and set aside.

#### Step 3: Make the Lemon Chili Sauce
1. In the same skillet, melt the **butter** over medium heat.
2. Add the **minced garlic** and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Stir in the **lemon juice**, **lemon zest**, **honey**, and **red chili flakes**. Simmer for 1–2 minutes to let the flavors meld.

#### Step 4: Combine and Serve
1. Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the lemon chili sauce over the top to coat. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to absorb the flavors.
2. Garnish with **fresh parsley** if desired.

#### Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Plate the chicken and drizzle with extra sauce. Serve with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, rice, or a light salad.

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### Tips for the Perfect Lemon Chili Chicken

1. **Pound the Chicken**: To ensure even cooking, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before seasoning.
2. **Adjust the Heat**: For a spicier dish, increase the amount of red chili flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
3. **Use Fresh Lemon**: Fresh lemon juice and zest are key to achieving the vibrant flavor in this dish.
4. **Prep Ahead**: Mix the spice rub and juice the lemons in advance to save time during cooking.
5. **Double the Sauce**: If you love extra sauce, double the ingredients for the lemon chili sauce—it’s great for drizzling over rice or vegetables!

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### Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lemon Chili Chicken brings together bold flavors and easy preparation, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. The tangy, buttery sauce elevates the dish to restaurant-quality, while the spicy kick keeps things exciting. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that pairs well with nearly any side, from creamy mashed potatoes to a light couscous salad.

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### Serving Suggestions

– **With Rice**: Serve over steamed jasmine or basmati rice to soak up the sauce.
– **With Veggies**: Pair with roasted asparagus, sautéed zucchini, or a medley of grilled vegetables.
– **Over Pasta**: Toss the chicken and sauce with spaghetti or linguine for a quick lemon chili pasta.
– **On Salad**: Slice the chicken and serve it over a bed of fresh greens with a drizzle of extra sauce as dressing.

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### Final Thoughts

Lemon Chili Chicken is a standout dish that delivers bold, vibrant flavors with minimal effort. Its balance of zesty citrus and warm spice is sure to impress your taste buds and leave you craving more. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting guests, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit.

So grab your skillet and lemons, and get ready to savor the irresistible flavors of Lemon Chili Chicken—it’s bound to become a regular in your recipe rotation! 🍋🌶️🍗