NONNA'S LEMON CHICKEN

A Creamy but Non-dairy Mediterranean Classic

Nonna’s Lemon Chicken is a light yet indulgent dish that brings together the zesty brightness of Mediterranean lemons with the comfort of a creamy, velvety sauce—all without a drop of dairy. This recipe is a staple in many southern Italian kitchens, where lemons grow in abundance and are prized for their ability to enhance both sweet and savory dishes.  

The creaminess in this version comes from a clever blend of lemon juice, olive oil and a touch of flour, creating a silky texture that mimics traditional cream sauces while keeping the dish light and dairy-free. It’s a perfect choice for those looking for quick, tasty dinner ideas that don’t compromise on flavor or nutrition.  

Best served with a side of roasted vegetables, fluffy rice, or crusty bread, this chicken dish is ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or a healthier alternative to rich cream-based recipes. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme just before serving elevates the flavors even more.  

This dish is a beautiful balance of protein, healthy fats, and citrusy freshness. Chicken provides lean protein, essential for muscle repair and sustained energy. The lemon juice is rich in vitamin C, supporting immune health and digestion.  

The use of olive oil instead of butter or cream delivers heart-healthy fats and Mediterranean flair; and the absence of dairy makes it easier to digest and suitable for those with lactose intolerance, or who are simply trying to reduce dairy.

A little history

While variations of lemon chicken exist across the Mediterranean, this particular approach has roots in southern Italy, especially in Campania and Sicily, where lemons are central to regional cuisine. Known for turning simple ingredients into flavorful masterpieces, nonnas have long used lemon, garlic, and olive oil to transform humble cuts of chicken into a delicious family meal.

This kind of recipe reflects the "cucina semplice" tradition: straightforward techniques, few ingredients, and maximum flavor. Passed down through generations, Nonna’s Lemon Chicken remains a favorite because it feels both nostalgic and refreshingly modern.

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INGREDIENTS👇🏻

• 350g | 12.3oz chicken breast

• 2 large lemons

• 5g | 0.2oz fresh lesser calamint

• Plain flour

• Sea salt

• Black pepper

• Extra virgin olive oil

The recipe step by step

1. 1. Wash, trim and roughly chop your chicken breast and put it in the juice of 2 lemons to marinate for at least 1 hour

   
   

2. Drain the chicken, keeping the marinade juice, and coat it generously in plain flour

   
   

3. Rip the calamint leaves by hand and add them to a blender with the marinade juice and a generous amount of extra virgin olive oil, blend to create a creamy emulsion

   
   

4. Add the chicken to a pan with extra virgin olive oil and a pinch of sea salt, and sizzle on low heat with a lid on

   
   

5. When the chicken is golden brown add half of the lemony emulsion, stir and let it reduce on low heat and with the lid on

   
   

6. Then add the last of the lemony emulsion, turn on the heat and let the sauce thickens with the lid off

   
   

7. Remove from the heat, add a generous scrunch of black pepper before serving…and enjoy! 😋