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Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet

Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet
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Tender and juicy Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet ready in under 30 minutes, featuring bright lemon, fragrant garlic, and a luscious buttery sauce. A one-pan meal that is flavorful, versatile, and perfect for quick dinners with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

Citrus & Garlic

  • 2 fresh lemons (zested and juiced)
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced

Liquids & Fats

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth (gluten-free if needed)
  • 2 tablespoons butter (or dairy-free alternative)

Herbs & Seasonings

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or thyme, chopped
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prep Your Ingredients: Zest and juice the lemons, mince the garlic, and season the chicken breasts or thighs evenly with salt and pepper. Having all ingredients ready shortens cooking time and maximizes flavor absorption.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 4-6 minutes per side. This searing locks in juices and creates a flavorful crust.
  3. Make the Sauce: Reduce heat to medium-low, add the minced garlic to the skillet, and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Pour in chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest, stirring gently. Add butter and let it melt, creating a silky, rich sauce that coats the chicken.
  4. Finish Cooking: Return the seared chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over the pieces, then cover the skillet. Cook for an additional 5–8 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through completely and absorb the sauce flavors.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or thyme over the finished dish to add vibrant color and fresh herbal aroma. Serve immediately with your chosen sides.

Notes

  • Pound chicken breasts to even thickness for consistent cooking.
  • Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook chicken in batches if necessary for proper searing.
  • Use fresh lemon juice and zest instead of bottled for optimal brightness.
  • Let cooked chicken rest a few minutes before serving to redistribute juices.
  • Use a heavy skillet like cast iron or stainless steel for best sear and flavor development.

Nutrition

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

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