Oh, let me tell you, this Skillet Lemon Chicken is one of my absolute favorite recipes in my kitchen arsenal! It’s quick, it’s easy, and the best part? You can have it ready in just 20 minutes. Seriously, if you’re looking for a dazzling dinner that packs a punch of flavor without spending hours slaving away, this is your go-to! The bright, zesty lemon juice, combined with the tender chicken, creates a dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying. I love how the simple ingredients come together to make something that feels special yet is so incredibly easy to whip up. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a last-minute dinner with friends, this Skillet Lemon Chicken never fails to impress. Plus, it’s healthy, which makes it a win-win in my book! Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it on repeat!
Ingredients List
To make this delicious Skillet Lemon Chicken, gather the following ingredients:
- For the Chicken:
- 4 pieces boneless and skinless chicken breasts
- For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
How to Prepare Skillet Lemon Chicken
Making this Skillet Lemon Chicken is a breeze, and I can’t wait to guide you through the steps! Let’s get started!
Step 1: Heat the Skillet
First, grab your skillet and place it over medium heat. Add the olive oil and let it heat up until it shimmers. This preheating is super important because it ensures your chicken cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden-brown crust. You don’t want to toss the chicken in an unheated pan; trust me, it makes a world of difference!
Step 2: Season the Chicken
While the skillet is heating, season your chicken breasts generously with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. I like to sprinkle the seasoning on both sides to ensure every bite is packed with flavor. This little step is crucial—don’t skimp on the salt! It really brings out the best in the chicken.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Once your skillet is ready, carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the pan. Cook them for about 5 minutes on one side without moving them—this helps create that beautiful sear. After 5 minutes, flip them over and cook for another 5 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked through. To check for doneness, you can cut into the thickest part and make sure the juices run clear. If you have a meat thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 165°F. Perfectly cooked chicken is juicy and tender!
Step 4: Add Lemon Juice
Now for the magic moment! Once the chicken is cooked, pour the freshly squeezed lemon juice over the top and let it cook for an additional minute. This step infuses the chicken with that bright, zesty flavor that makes this dish so special. The heat will help the flavors meld beautifully, so don’t rush it!
Step 5: Serve
Finally, it’s time to serve your Skillet Lemon Chicken warm. I love to plate it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor. You can serve it alongside some steamed veggies or over a bed of fluffy rice to soak up all that delicious lemony goodness. Enjoy every bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, this Skillet Lemon Chicken is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without the fuss.
- Flavorful: The bright, zesty lemon juice combined with the savory chicken creates a mouthwatering dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein and made with fresh ingredients, this recipe is a guilt-free choice that fits perfectly into a balanced diet.
- Versatile: Serve it with a variety of sides like roasted veggies, rice, or a fresh salad, making it adaptable to any meal or occasion.
- Simple Ingredients: You likely have everything you need on hand already, which means less stress and more time to enjoy your meal!
- Family-Friendly: This dish is not only easy to make, but it also pleases picky eaters, making it a hit with the whole family.
Tips for Success
To make your Skillet Lemon Chicken the best it can be, I’ve got some pro tips that will elevate your cooking experience!
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly squeezed lemon juice truly makes a difference in flavor. If you can, avoid bottled lemon juice; the taste won’t compare!
- Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: If you’re cooking more than four chicken breasts, do it in batches. Overcrowding can lower the skillet’s temperature and prevent that beautiful sear.
- Let Chicken Rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps keep the juices locked in, making each bite juicy and tender.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the skillet for an extra layer of flavor. They complement the lemon beautifully!
- Adjust Cooking Time for Thickness: If your chicken breasts are particularly thick, you might need to cook them a minute or two longer. Just keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this delightful dish!
Nutritional Information Section
Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional information for this delicious Skillet Lemon Chicken. Keep in mind that these values are estimates based on common ingredients, so they can vary slightly based on specific brands and preparations.
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 45g
- Vitamin A: 10%
- Vitamin C: 15%
- Calcium: 5%
- Iron: 5%
This Skillet Lemon Chicken is not only quick and tasty, but it’s also a healthy choice packed with protein and essential nutrients. Enjoy it guilt-free!
FAQ Section
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work great in this Skillet Lemon Chicken recipe. They tend to be juicier and more flavorful than breasts. Just keep in mind that thighs may require a bit longer to cook, usually around 6-7 minutes per side, depending on their thickness. As always, check for doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
What can I serve with Skillet Lemon Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! You could serve it alongside some steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus for a healthy touch. A bed of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes also complements the lemony flavors beautifully. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette will balance the meal perfectly. Trust me, any of these options will elevate your dinner!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can definitely prepare this Skillet Lemon Chicken ahead of time! Cook the chicken as directed, let it cool, and then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply reheat it in the skillet with a splash of lemon juice to keep that fresh flavor. If you’re meal prepping, this dish is fantastic for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week!
Call to Action
If you try this Skillet Lemon Chicken, I’d love to hear what you think! Leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out for you. Did you add any special twists or serve it with a favorite side? Also, if you enjoyed this recipe, please consider giving it a rating! Sharing your experience helps others discover this delicious dish too. And don’t forget to snap a pic of your creation and share it on social media—tag me so I can see your amazing version of this quick and flavorful meal! Happy cooking!
For more delicious recipes, check out my Pinterest page!
Skillet Lemon Chicken
Equipment
- Skillet
- Spatula
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 pieces chicken breasts boneless and skinless
For the Sauce
- 1/4 cup lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in the skillet over medium heat.
- Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the chicken in the skillet for about 5 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked.
- Add lemon juice to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
- Serve warm.