This Skillet Lemon Chicken is a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and buttery flavors that come together in one easy-to-make dish. The chicken breasts are seared to golden perfection and then simmered in a lemony garlic sauce that will have your taste buds dancing.
This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a cozy family meal, or even a fancy dinner party when you need a simple yet impressive dish. The fresh parsley and lemon wedges add a pop of color and brightness, making it as beautiful as it is delicious. Serve this with your favorite side dishes for a complete meal that will surely become a staple in your recipe collection.
Full Recipe:
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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Salt and pepper to taste
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2 tablespoons butter
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon lemon zest
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1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
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1/2 cup chicken broth
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1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
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Lemon wedges for serving
Directions:
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
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Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes, reducing slightly.
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Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the sauce.
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Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Skillet Lemon Chicken: A Zesty Delight for Any Occasion
Skillet Lemon Chicken is one of those recipes that combines simplicity with flavor in a way that is sure to impress. It’s an easy-to-make dish that elevates the humble chicken breast to something extraordinary. The tangy lemon, savory garlic, and buttery sauce come together perfectly to create a mouthwatering dish that works for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
The Origins of Skillet Lemon Chicken
The concept of lemon and chicken together is nothing new. Lemon has long been used in various cuisines, particularly Mediterranean and European, to complement the flavors of chicken. The combination of lemon and chicken is believed to have originated in Mediterranean countries, where fresh herbs and citrus are key ingredients in everyday cooking. Skillet cooking, on the other hand, is a technique that is widely used around the world. This method, which involves cooking food in a heavy skillet, allows the chicken to be seared beautifully, sealing in its juices, and resulting in a tender and flavorful bite every time. The simplicity and versatility of this dish make it a favorite across cultures, as it can easily be adapted with different spices, herbs, and even vegetables.
Why Skillet Lemon Chicken is the Perfect Dish
There are several reasons why Skillet Lemon Chicken has earned its place in many people’s recipe rotations. First and foremost, it’s quick to make, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish. This makes it ideal for busy weeknights when you want something flavorful and satisfying but don’t have the time for a long cooking session. The dish is also incredibly easy to prepare, requiring just a handful of ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Plus, skillet cooking allows you to infuse the chicken with rich, bold flavors while keeping it moist and tender. Whether you serve it with rice, vegetables, or a fresh salad, this chicken dish pairs wonderfully with just about anything, making it a versatile choice for any meal.
Preparation Tips for Perfect Skillet Lemon Chicken
To ensure that your Skillet Lemon Chicken turns out perfectly every time, there are a few preparation tips to keep in mind. First, make sure to season the chicken breasts well before cooking. A simple mix of salt and pepper can go a long way in enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken. You can also add a pinch of dried herbs, like thyme or oregano, for a more aromatic touch.
The key to achieving that crispy, golden-brown exterior is to make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken. The oil should shimmer, but not smoke, and the chicken should sizzle as soon as it hits the pan. Once the chicken has been seared on both sides, don’t overcrowd the skillet. If you’re making a larger batch, cook the chicken in batches to avoid steaming the chicken. This way, each piece gets the perfect amount of crispy crust while staying juicy inside.
When adding the garlic and lemon juice to the pan, be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. Instead, sauté the garlic for just a minute or two until fragrant, then deglaze the pan with the lemon juice and chicken broth. The lemon juice adds a lovely tanginess, while the chicken broth creates a rich, savory base for the sauce.
Health Benefits of Skillet Lemon Chicken
Skillet Lemon Chicken is not just a tasty dish; it’s also a healthy one. Chicken breast is a lean protein that is low in fat and high in essential nutrients like B vitamins and phosphorus. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet or lose weight. The addition of lemon, a vitamin C powerhouse, helps boost immunity and aids in digestion. Plus, the garlic used in the recipe has numerous health benefits, including supporting heart health and providing antimicrobial properties.
This dish is also naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions. If you’re following a low-carb or ketogenic diet, Skillet Lemon Chicken can easily be paired with vegetables or a cauliflower mash to keep the meal low in carbohydrates. For those seeking to add more fiber to their diet, this dish can also be served alongside a side of quinoa or roasted sweet potatoes, both of which complement the flavors of the chicken beautifully.
Delicious Variations to Try
While the classic Skillet Lemon Chicken is delicious on its own, there are numerous ways to switch things up and make the dish your own. If you want to add some heat, try incorporating a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small diced chili pepper into the sauce. The heat from the chili complements the lemon’s brightness and adds an extra layer of flavor.
For a richer sauce, you could stir in a little heavy cream or coconut milk after deglazing the pan. This would turn the sauce into a creamy, decadent treat that pairs perfectly with the chicken. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, or even dill, to add more depth to the flavor profile.
If you’re a fan of vegetables, feel free to add them to the skillet while the chicken is cooking. Fresh spinach, mushrooms, or asparagus all work well with the lemony sauce. These vegetables not only add more nutrients but also make for a beautiful presentation, turning your Skillet Lemon Chicken into a complete, one-pan meal.
Serving Suggestions
Skillet Lemon Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. For a simple, healthy option, serve it with steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or roasted Brussels sprouts. For a heartier meal, serve it with mashed potatoes, couscous, or a fluffy rice pilaf. The lemony chicken sauce is perfect for drizzling over the side dishes, tying everything together.
To add some extra color and freshness, consider garnishing the dish with fresh parsley or basil just before serving. A few wedges of lemon on the side not only make for a beautiful presentation but also allow your guests to enjoy an extra burst of citrus if they wish.
Conclusion
Skillet Lemon Chicken is a flavorful and versatile dish that is perfect for any occasion. Its quick preparation, rich flavors, and health benefits make it a great choice for busy weeknights, family dinners, or even entertaining guests. With its bright lemony sauce, savory garlic, and tender chicken, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Whether you stick to the classic version or experiment with variations, Skillet Lemon Chicken is a meal that’s guaranteed to impress every time you make it. Try it today and savor the vibrant, delicious flavors of this easy and satisfying dish!