Print

Lemon Chicken Skillet

Lemon Chicken Skillet
Print Recipe

This Lemon Chicken Skillet is a quick, one-pan meal bursting with bright, zesty lemon flavor paired perfectly with tender chicken and savory herbs. Ideal for busy weeknights or casual entertaining, this dish combines fresh ingredients like garlic, herbs, and citrus to create a healthy, flavorful, and effortless dinner that’s both satisfying and elegant.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

Citrus and Aromatics

  • 2 fresh lemons (juice and zest)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids and Fats

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth

Herbs and Seasonings

  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme or parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Season and Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper. This helps to lock in flavor and promotes a golden-brown crust during cooking.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden and crisp on the outside but not completely cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Build the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Then pour in the chicken broth, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. Scrape the browned bits from the bottom of the pan to deglaze and infuse the sauce with flavor.
  4. Simmer the Chicken: Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over each piece. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the sauce thickens slightly.
  5. Finish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped thyme or parsley over the skillet just before serving for a bright, fresh aroma and vibrant color.

Notes

  • Use Room Temperature Chicken: Allows even cooking and juicier meat.
  • Don’t Skip the Sear: Achieving a golden crust seals in moisture and enhances flavor.
  • Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemons provide the best vibrant citrus flavor.
  • Adjust Liquid Amount: Depending on skillet size, modify broth and lemon juice to achieve desired sauce consistency.
  • Rest Before Serving: Let chicken rest a few minutes in the sauce off heat to absorb flavors fully.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon chicken, one pan meal, quick dinner, healthy chicken, gluten free, lemon skillet, easy chicken recipe

Find it online: https://eazyum.com/lemon-chicken-skillet/