Ingredients

3 chicken breasts (skinless, boneless)

1 cup chicken broth (or chicken stock, or water + chicken base)

5 cloves garlic

1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

1 tablespoon Italian seasoning (start with half and adjust to taste)

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon arrowroot starch (or potato starch, all-purpose flour, or cornstarch if not on Whole30)

1 tablespoon water

2 tablespoons avocado oil

Salt

Black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Score each piece with a crosshatch pattern by making two cuts lengthwise and five cuts crosswise without cutting all the way through. Season both sides with salt and black pepper.

Step 2: Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and whole garlic cloves to the hot oil. Cook the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Step 3: Carefully pour in the chicken broth, then stir in Italian seasoning, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Continue cooking for a few minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together the arrowroot starch and water to create a slurry. Move the chicken to one side of the pan, then slowly add the slurry while stirring the sauce on medium heat. Cook for one more minute to thicken the sauce.

Step 5: Serve the chicken breasts topped with the lemon Dijon sauce immediately for best flavor.

Tips & Variations

If you prefer, substitute avocado oil with olive oil or another neutral oil suitable for searing.

Adjust the amount of Italian seasoning gradually, especially if your blend is very strong.

For a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk after thickening.

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is perfectly cooked without drying out.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken breasts for this recipe?

Bone-in breasts take longer to cook and may not sear evenly. If using bone-in, increase cooking time and check doneness carefully with a meat thermometer.

What can I substitute for arrowroot starch?

You can use potato starch, cornstarch, or all-purpose flour as alternatives to arrowroot starch, but note that flour is not Whole30 compliant if you are following that diet.