Skillet Lemon Chicken Recipe: Easy & Delicious Weeknight Meal

I’ve included some videos below for those who prefer to watch rather than read.

If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner, look no further than this skillet lemon chicken recipe. It’s made with simple ingredients like chicken, lemon juice, and garlic, yet it delivers a burst of flavor that will impress your taste buds.

With just 15-30 minutes of cooking time, you’ll have a meal that’s not only delicious but also healthy and easy to prepare. This dish works well with chicken breasts or thighs and can be paired with pasta, rice, or veggies.

Exact Ingredients (+ Possible Substitutes)

To make a tasty skillet lemon chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients. Feel free to swap out any ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.

Main Ingredients

• Chicken Breasts or Thighs: About 1-2 pounds. Substitute: Chicken tenders or bone-in chicken can work too, just adjust the cooking time.
• Lemon: You’ll need both the zest and juice of 1-2 lemons. Substitute: Lime can be used for a different citrus flavor.
• Olive Oil or Butter: 2 tablespoons. Substitute: Canola oil or ghee are good alternatives.
• Garlic: 2-3 cloves, minced. Substitute: Garlic powder, if fresh is unavailable.
• Chicken Broth: 1/2 cup. Substitute: Vegetable broth or even water with a pinch of salt.

Seasonings

• Italian Seasoning: 1-2 teaspoons. Substitute: A mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste.
• Flour: 1/4 cup for coating the chicken. Substitute: Almond flour or gluten-free flour.

Optional Add-ins

• Thyme or Rosemary: Fresh or dried. Substitute: Other herbs like parsley or dill for a different flavor.
• Onion: 1 small onion, sliced. Substitute: Shallots or green onions.
• Olives: Green or black. Substitute: Capers for a briny flavor.

By keeping these ingredients in mind, you can create a delicious skillet lemon chicken and even tailor it to your preferences.

Instructions

To make skillet lemon chicken, start by gathering your ingredients.

1. Season the Chicken:

   • Season chicken strips with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
   • Pat chicken dry to ensure a good sear.

2. Cook the Chicken:

   • Heat 1 tablespoon each of oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on one side.
   • Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

3. Prepare the Sauce:

   • Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
   • Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth, 1/4 cup of lemon juice, and lemon zest.

4. Simmer:

   • Reduce the heat to medium.
   • Simmer the mixture for about 5 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.

5. Serve:

   • Garnish with lemon slices and finely chopped parsley if desired.
   • Serve hot with your choice of sides.

Enjoy your delicious skillet lemon chicken!

Tips, Tricks & Storing

Tips

• Use fresh lemons for the best flavor.
• Pat the chicken dry before cooking to get a good sear.
• Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to enhance the taste.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook chicken in batches if needed.

Tricks

• Experiment with herbs: Add thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F.
• Deglaze the skillet with a bit of broth or wine for extra depth.

Storing

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Freeze the cooked chicken by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in a freezer bag. It will keep for up to 2 months.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep it moist.