Description
This Lemon Chicken Skillet recipe features tender boneless chicken breasts cooked to golden perfection in a lemony garlic sauce made with fresh lemon juice, zest, and a hint of herbs. Perfectly balanced with savory butter and bright lemon flavors, it’s a quick and easy one-pan meal that can be served over rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes for a wholesome dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon thyme
Sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 1–2 lemons)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For Garnish
- Lemon slices
- Chopped parsley
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry and season both sides evenly with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and thyme to infuse flavor.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping the bottom of the skillet to lift flavorful browned bits. Stir in lemon zest and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it reduce slightly for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Finish the Sauce: Stir the unsalted butter into the sauce until fully melted and smooth, creating a rich and silky texture.
- Combine and Simmer: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning the lemon sauce over it. Let everything simmer together for another 2 to 3 minutes to heat through and meld flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh lemon slices and chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy over your favorite side like rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes.
Notes
- Serve with rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
- For a creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream when stirring in the butter.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
