Hey there, friend! Let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight dinner: the Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet. This dish is not just simple; it’s bursting with flavor and comes together in about 25 minutes. I mean, who doesn’t love a meal that’s quick, easy, and makes your kitchen smell heavenly? The combination of juicy chicken breasts, zesty lemon, and aromatic garlic creates a delicious harmony that’s hard to resist. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a go-to in your home, too. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something satisfying but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. So, let’s dive in and get cooking!
Ingredients List
- 4 chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless for easy cooking and tender bites.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: This adds a beautiful richness and helps brown the chicken perfectly.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic gives that incredible aromatic kick you won’t want to miss.
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested: You’ll need both the juice for tanginess and the zest for that intense lemon flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A sprinkle of this herb adds a lovely depth to the dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing all those wonderful flavors—don’t skimp on this!
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish: This brightens up the dish and adds a fresh, vibrant touch.
How to Prepare Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet
Step-by-Step Instructions
Alright, let’s get cooking! This Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet is super straightforward, and I promise you’ll have it on the table in no time. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat the oil: Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You’ll know it’s ready when the oil starts to shimmer a bit.
- Season the chicken: While the oil is heating, season your 4 chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano. Don’t be shy with the seasoning—it really makes a difference!
- Cook the chicken: Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. You’re looking for a nice crust here, which adds flavor!
- Add garlic: Once the chicken is beautifully browned, add in the 4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for just 1 minute. Keep an eye on it—garlic can burn quickly, and we don’t want that!
- Pour in the lemon: Now, it’s time for the star of the show! Squeeze in the juice of 1 lemon and add the zest. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes, allowing those flavors to mingle and create a luscious sauce.
- Garnish and serve: Finally, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley over the top before serving. This adds a lovely pop of color and freshness!
And there you go! Your Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet is ready to be devoured. Serve it up with some rice or your favorite veggies, and enjoy every flavorful bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 25 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of lemon and garlic creates an irresistible aroma and taste.
- One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your delicious meal.
- Customizable: Adjust the lemon juice for more tang or add your favorite veggies for extra nutrition.
- Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with protein and low in fat, it’s a dish you can feel good about.
Tips for Success
To make your Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet absolutely perfect, here are a few tips I swear by! First, choose fresh chicken breasts; they’ll cook more evenly and taste better. If you can, let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking—this helps with even cooking. Also, don’t rush the browning process; that golden crust adds so much flavor, so give it time! When you add the garlic, keep the heat moderate; you want it fragrant, not burnt. And if you love a bit more zing, feel free to adjust that lemon juice to your taste—just remember, a little goes a long way! Finally, don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley; it really brightens everything up. Happy cooking!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet, the possibilities are endless! I love pairing it with fluffy white rice or quinoa to soak up that delicious lemon-garlic sauce. If you’re in the mood for veggies, steamed broccoli or sautéed green beans make a lovely side, adding a pop of color and crunch. For a lighter option, a fresh garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette really complements the flavors. And if you’re feeling fancy, try serving it with some roasted potatoes for a hearty touch. No matter what you choose, it’s bound to be a hit!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional values for one serving of Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet—that’s one chicken breast. Keep in mind these values are typical estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Protein: 50g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Cholesterol: 120mg
This dish is not only delicious but also packed with protein and low in carbs, making it a healthy choice for any meal!
FAQ Section
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work beautifully in this Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet. They tend to be juicier and more flavorful, so if you prefer them, go for it!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the chicken and season it a few hours in advance. However, I recommend cooking it fresh for the best flavor and texture. If you have leftovers, just store them in an airtight container in the fridge!
What can I substitute for olive oil?
If you’re out of olive oil, you can use canola oil or avocado oil. They both have high smoke points and will work well for cooking the chicken.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! The Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have one, just make sure the juices run clear when you cut into the thickest part of the chicken!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you have any leftovers from your delicious Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet, don’t worry! They store beautifully. Just let the chicken cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just pop it in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. If you prefer, you can also reheat it gently in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to keep it moist. Enjoy those amazing flavors again!
Print
Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet: 5 Flavorful Steps to Bliss
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A simple and flavorful lemon garlic chicken dish cooked in one skillet.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and oregano.
- Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in lemon juice and zest. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Serve with rice or vegetables.
- Adjust lemon juice for more tang.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 50g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet