Braised chicken with lemon

Braised Chicken with Lemon features tender chicken thighs infused with zesty lemon and served alongside fluffy couscous and sweet peas. The dish is braised in savory gravy, making it a perfect choice for a delicious family meal.

31 Jan 2026
Cook time 35 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

2 lemons
1 tbsp olive oil
4 chicken thighs
2 cups chicken gravy
1 cup couscous
1 cup peas
1/2 cup fresh parsley

Braised Chicken with Lemon is a delightful and zesty dish that combines the succulence of chicken thighs with the bright, citrusy flavor of lemons. Accompanied by fluffy couscous and sweet peas, this meal is both hearty and refreshing. Ideal for dinner parties or a special family meal, this recipe is sure to impress with its tantalizing taste and appealing presentation.

Instructions:

1. Prepare Ingredients:
- Zest one lemon and set aside the zest.
- Cut the zested lemon and the second lemon into thin slices.
- Rinse the chicken thighs and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Chop the parsley coarsely and set aside.

2. Brown the Chicken:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Once the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs skin-side down.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
- Flip the chicken thighs and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Remove the chicken thighs from the skillet and set aside.

3. Sauté Lemon Slices:
- In the same skillet, add the lemon slices and cook for about 2-3 minutes or until they start to caramelize.

4. Braise the Chicken:
- Return the browned chicken thighs to the skillet, placing them on top of the lemon slices.
- Pour the chicken gravy over the chicken and lemon slices.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

5. Prepare Couscous & Peas:
- Meanwhile, in a separate pot, bring 1 1/4 cups of water to a boil.
- Add a pinch of salt and the couscous to the boiling water.
- Remove from heat, cover, and let it stand for 5 minutes.
- Fluff the couscous with a fork, then stir in the peas and cover again to let the peas warm through.

6. Combine and Serve:
- Just before serving, stir the lemon zest and chopped parsley into the chicken gravy and mix well.
- Serve the braised chicken with a portion of couscous and peas on the side.
- Spoon some of the delicious lemony gravy over the chicken and couscous for added flavor.
- Garnish with additional parsley if desired.

7. Enjoy:
- Your Braised Chicken with Lemon is ready to be enjoyed!

This Braised Chicken with Lemon recipe is a perfect balance of tender chicken, tangy lemon, and savory couscous. The infusion of fresh parsley adds a fragrant touch, making every bite a delightful experience. Whether you're a novice cook or an experienced chef, this dish is easy to prepare and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the blend of flavors and the satisfaction of serving a wholesome, delicious meal.

Braised chicken with lemon FAQ:

What is the cooking time for braised chicken thighs?

The chicken thighs should be browned for about 10-12 minutes (5-7 minutes skin-side down, then another 5 minutes). Once you braise them with the gravy, let them simmer for 25-30 minutes on low heat until fully cooked and tender.

How can I tell if the chicken is fully cooked?

To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Additionally, the meat should be tender and no longer pink at the bone.

Can I use a different type of chicken besides thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for thighs. However, chicken breasts may require a shorter cooking time, so monitor them closely to avoid drying out.

How should I store leftovers of this dish?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

What can I substitute for couscous?

If you prefer a different grain, you can substitute couscous with quinoa or rice. Adjust the cooking times as necessary according to the grain you choose.

Cooking Tips:

- Ensure to brown the chicken thighs well in olive oil to bring out a deep, rich flavor.

- Use fresh lemons for the best citrus flavor; bottled lemon juice may not give the same zestiness.

- Add the peas towards the end of the cooking process to maintain their vibrant color and firm texture.

- For a more intense lemon flavor, you can add some lemon zest along with the juice.

- Stir the couscous with a fork after cooking to fluff it up and prevent it from clumping.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 380kcal
Protein 22g
Carbohydrates 30g
Fiber 4.01g
Sugar 3.09g
Fat 24g

Braised chicken with lemon